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Caterpillar Venom

All articles tagged with #caterpillar venom

"Caterpillar Venom's Ancient Link to Bacterial Ancestors Revealed"
science-and-technology3 years ago

"Caterpillar Venom's Ancient Link to Bacterial Ancestors Revealed"

Researchers at the University of Queensland have discovered that the venom of the asp caterpillar contains toxins that behave similarly to toxins produced by disease-causing bacteria. The venom, which evolved from bacteria over 400 million years ago, has the potential for targeted drug delivery or selective cancer cell destruction. Caterpillar venom is largely understudied, but its ability to puncture holes in cells offers promising applications in medicine.

"Bacterial Influence: Unveiling Caterpillar Venom's Toxin Origins"
science3 years ago

"Bacterial Influence: Unveiling Caterpillar Venom's Toxin Origins"

Researchers at The University of Queensland have discovered that the venom of the asp caterpillar contains toxin genes transferred from bacteria, which allow the venom to punch holes in cells similar to disease-causing bacteria. This finding could have implications for the development of lifesaving drugs and targeted drug delivery. The asp caterpillar's venom, known for its excruciating sting, has evolved over 400 million years through the transfer of genes from bacteria. Caterpillar venoms are understudied but hold potential for the development of medicines, pesticides, and scientific tools.