Bugs, drugs and electric venom: is this the most deadly library in the world?
Scientists in Brisbane, led by Andrew Walker, study venom from various animals, including caterpillars, for potential medical and agricultural benefits. Their research aims to develop targeted therapeutics using venom-derived molecules.
Read original article
In north Queensland, the electric caterpillar, known for its excruciating sting, has caught the attention of scientists in Brisbane. Andrew Walker and his team at the University of Queensland are studying the venom of various venomous animals, including caterpillars, to explore their potential healing properties. By analyzing the complex molecules in venom, researchers aim to develop compounds for chronic pain relief, diabetes treatment, and eco-friendly insecticides. The team has amassed a vast venom library, possibly the largest in the world, containing toxins from over 500 species. While venom is traditionally associated with harm, researchers like Walker and Glenn King are focused on harnessing its therapeutic potential. By targeting ion channels in the body, venom-derived molecules could lead to the creation of targeted therapeutics for various human disorders. The team's work with venom from spiders, scorpions, and caterpillars has shown promising results, with potential applications in protecting against heart attacks and strokes. Through their research, they hope to unlock new insights into venom's diverse molecular compositions and their potential benefits for medicine and agriculture.
Related
Australia's giant lizards help save sheep from being eaten alive
Researchers at the University of Cambridge found heath goannas in Australia help control blowflies by consuming maggot-infested carcasses, reducing fly strike on sheep. Protecting these native scavengers benefits ecosystems and agriculture.
Computer-designed proteins guide stem cells to form blood vessels
Researchers at the University of Washington developed computer-designed proteins to guide stem cells in forming blood vessels, showing promise in regenerative medicine for organ repair. The study highlights potential advancements in tissue development research.
Mapping the biology of spinal cord injury in unprecedented detail
EPFL researchers develop 'Tabulae Paralytica' atlas using AI and molecular mapping to study spinal cord injuries in mice. Identifies key genes, challenges astrocyte roles, and highlights Vsx2 neurons for recovery. Published in Nature, the study offers insights for potential gene therapy.
Bacteria found to produce proteins that act like antifreeze
Certain marine worms in polar waters survive cold temperatures with symbiotic bacteria producing antifreeze-like proteins. Research in Science Advances reveals the worms host bacteria for cryoprotective proteins, preventing freezing. This study showcases microbial assistance in extreme environments.
Light targets cells for death and triggers immune response with laser precision
Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign developed a method using light to induce inflammatory cell death, potentially aiding cancer and inflammatory disease treatments. The precise technique triggers immune responses for therapeutic applications.
2 comments
Related
Australia's giant lizards help save sheep from being eaten alive
Researchers at the University of Cambridge found heath goannas in Australia help control blowflies by consuming maggot-infested carcasses, reducing fly strike on sheep. Protecting these native scavengers benefits ecosystems and agriculture.
Computer-designed proteins guide stem cells to form blood vessels
Researchers at the University of Washington developed computer-designed proteins to guide stem cells in forming blood vessels, showing promise in regenerative medicine for organ repair. The study highlights potential advancements in tissue development research.
Mapping the biology of spinal cord injury in unprecedented detail
EPFL researchers develop 'Tabulae Paralytica' atlas using AI and molecular mapping to study spinal cord injuries in mice. Identifies key genes, challenges astrocyte roles, and highlights Vsx2 neurons for recovery. Published in Nature, the study offers insights for potential gene therapy.
Bacteria found to produce proteins that act like antifreeze
Certain marine worms in polar waters survive cold temperatures with symbiotic bacteria producing antifreeze-like proteins. Research in Science Advances reveals the worms host bacteria for cryoprotective proteins, preventing freezing. This study showcases microbial assistance in extreme environments.
Light targets cells for death and triggers immune response with laser precision
Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign developed a method using light to induce inflammatory cell death, potentially aiding cancer and inflammatory disease treatments. The precise technique triggers immune responses for therapeutic applications.