New drugs are being created from deadly Australian sea snail venom

Meanwhile Florida Atlantic University published a study earlier this year showing how venom of these cone snails is particularly intriguing in the world of pain relief, due to its properties that act as an analgesic and immobilize prey. A sting from the one of the smaller species isn’t much worse than a bee sting. Though snails can be a nuisance for humans, especially for farmers, there is this specific species of snail that could be the answer or cure to some serious ailments. “This study gives the first-ever snapshot of the toxins that exist in the venom of a single cone snail”, Prof Alewood said. Actually, it is.

Professor Paul Alewood, from the University of Queensland’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience says that the toxins found in the cone snail’s venom could prove to be valuable leads for a wide range of drugs.

Australian researchers have discovered thousands of new toxins hidden deep within the venom of one type of Queensland sea cone snail.

Alewood describes cone snail venom as “a complex cocktail of many chemicals and most of these toxins have been overlooked in the past”. With this and other studies, it is their hope that the study of new molecules found in the snail could lead to promising drugs and treatment for both pain management and cancer.

Scientists have discovered twenty five frameworks in more than twenty years which have led to the creation of drugs or drug leads at least for various diseases. The venom could also pave way for the development of new drugs that can treat pain, addiction and cancer.

Common species of cone shells across southeast Asia and Pacific Ocean.

Cone snails become aggressive when provoked, shooting a long appendage that pierces quickly through its target’s body and then injects the deadly venom.

During the study, they used their new method, which involved accurately measuring and analyzing the structure, activity and composition of the diverse range of proteins lurking within the poisonous venom.

The secret is controlling it to only target what you want. A few may, too, be harboring incredibly powerful venom. The species of cone snail is called Conus episcopatus and it lives along Australia’s east coast. According to the Nature article, previous research discovered one component put mice to sleep while others had various neurological effects like making the animal shake or run in circles.