We recently discovered a novel family of neuroactive peptides in nemerteans, which we have named alpha-nemertides (1). One of these peptides, nemertide alpha-1, has been the subject of detailed studies with regard to structure and effects. The peptide exhibits exceptional potency against a number of arthropod species. Moreover, in vitro experiments suggest that alpha-1 acts primarily on voltage-gated sodium channels, and that this action is selective for arthropods by two orders of magnitude over vertebrate species. Using transcriptomic and proteomic approaches, we have identified 10 alpha-nemertides, but this number is likely to increase. These peptides alongside with a series of mutants are currently under evaluation by our group, with the goal to improve our understanding of structure-function relationships. In addition, we are considering potential practical uses of alpha-nemertides. In this talk, I will describe the current status of this research project.

1. E. Jacobsson et al., Peptide ion channel toxins from the bootlace worm, the longest animal on Earth. Scientific reports 8, 4596 (2018).