Researchers uncovered a “second strike” in mamba venom that explains why some patients rebound after antivenom—only to spiral into painful spasms. Several mamba species first shut muscles down, then hit a different part of the nervous system that triggers uncontrolled contractions once treatment removes the first effect. “If you’re bitten by 3 out of 4 mamba species, you will experience flaccid or limp paralysis caused by postsynaptic neurotoxicity. PhD candidate Lee Jones, who conducted the experimental work on the mamba venoms, said the research proved new antivenoms were critical to saving lives. Surprising Findings From the Lab“We set out to understand different venom potencies between mamba species,” Mr. Jones said.