Woodrats' genes protect them from rattlesnake venom (English, Level A1)

Woodrats can survive venomous rattlesnake bites in nature.
They are small rodents that weigh very little.
A genetic change gives them extra protection.
Scientists looked at a family of genes.
Some genes in the family can bind venom.
Other gene versions do not bind venom.
Copying of genes can make new versions.
This change helps woodrats survive snake attacks.
Researchers want to understand how this works.
The findings may explain animal resistance to venom.

Difficult words

venomous — has poison in its bite or sting

genetic — related to genes or DNA in organisms

bind — to join or stick to something

copy — to make the same thing again

Copying

resistance — ability to stop harm from a poison or disease

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Woodrats' genes protect them from rattlesnake venom^{CEFR A1}

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