Unravelling the molecular diversity and evolution of centipede venoms (2016-2018)
Abstract
Venoms have emerged as a rich source of pharmacological tools with potential for development into therapeutics and bioinsecticides. However, venoms-based discovery has been limited by the narrow taxonomical range of animals studied, with many groups of venomous animals remaining overlooked. One such group is centipedes, whose venoms contain an astonishing diversity of novel toxins that differ substantially between taxa. This project aims to provide the first comprehensive insight into the evolution of centipede venom, and how this might be constrained by venom-gland morphology. This study will contribute to our understanding of protein evolution and provide a roadmap for directing biodiscovery efforts from centipede venom.
