Cone snails are among the ocean’s most terrifying toxic creatures. They typically inject a potent toxin that can paralyze the body and even kill their prey. Many medical experts believe they are responsible for about 30% of human fatalities related to marine toxins.
Recently, scientists have successfully isolated several compounds from the venom of cone snails. These compounds, known as ACV1, hold the promise of developing a new type of pain relief medication. This is not just a vague hope; researchers at the University of Melbourne have joined forces with a pharmaceutical company to utilize ACV1 in developing treatments for neuropathic pain associated with conditions like diabetes and shingles.
Professor Bruce Livett mentioned there are many other potential benefits, including the treatment of epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease. He stated, “This is a natural remedy that helps us overcome dependencies and the unexpected side effects associated with conventional painkillers.”
Lệ Đào – World Security