CHAPTER 1:Seeing the Woods for the Trees: Understanding Venom Evolution as a Guide for Biodiscovery

摘要: Natural compounds have been utilised for medicinal purposes since ancient times. The toxic secretions of venomous animals evolved over millions years evolutionary time to induce paralysis and systematic breakdown homeostasis in prey, addition aiding defence against predators. In the process, a remarkable arsenal biochemical components has developed, including toxins with astonishing specificity affinity various types cells receptors, many which participate essential physiological pathways. Hence, venoms perceived as rich sources novel use drug design development. Although biased towards narrow range taxa, modern toxinological research focussed on utilising these fascinating not only elucidating intricate mechanisms life but also development life-saving pharmaceutical drugs. Understanding complex shaping different venom is highly effective A multidisciplinary approach, spanning methods such transcriptomics, proteomics, bioactivity testing molecular evolution analyses, potential unravel true biodiversity provide invaluable information