I've Got a Better Idea

I think the scientists would be more valuable finding a way to increase the rate, like say, 100% or more.  

Truly--why do people think rattlesnakes have a specialized niche? Other snakes eat rodents and the same things rattlesnakes eat, and they don't have the down side of poisonous bites. I took care of a guy in the hospital who had been bitten on the finger by a rattlesnake. His arm was swollen and black all the way up to his shoulder. It was horrific. 

I'm not a fan of the pit vipers.