Evolution of Venom: Deadly Spider and Centipede Venom May Have Evolved From Insulin-Like Hormone

Scientists may have discovered the origins of spider and centipede venom. They've found that the venom evolved from an insulin-like hormone, similar to what can be found in humans.

In this latest study, the researchers screened for similarities between the venom proteins and other molecules. They found that even though the toxins and the hormone had different genetic sequences, they had similar molecular shapes.

Knowing the past history of a toxin is useful when it comes to developing new pharmaceuticals and bioinsecticides. Venom molecules are extremely complex. In fact, some are made up of over 3,000 peptides. This means that once the structure is known, researchesr can more easily "evolve" a toxin by making changes to its sequence to add or remove functions. The products of these experiments have resulted in blood pressure drugs, analgesics and bioinsecticides.

In this latest study, the researchers found that centipede venom has more subtle alterations of the hormone that make it more stable and therefore a better engineering template. The goal is to currently take away toxicity to solve problems.

That said, the researchers aren't sure how the protein evolved in a weapon. Currently, the scientists believe that it's possible that the hormone may have been recruited into an ancient arthropod's venom to cause adverse effects in prey.

The findings are published in the journal Structure.

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