Exploring ion channel toxins from the Swedish fauna

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https://lnu.diva-portal.org/smash/project.jsf?pid=project:5246

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Title [sv]

Studier a Magnaporthe-patogener, resistensförädling och andra åtgärder för att främja odling av finger-millet

Title [en]

Exploring ion channel toxins from the Swedish fauna

Abstract [sv]

Peptide toxins have a huge potential as pharmacological agents due to high affinity and selectivity for their target receptors. In the current project we will explore a neglected natural resource to find new toxins acting on novel targets, namely the peptide toxins that are used by nemerteans (ribbon worms) to capture their prey. Over 70 species of these predators can be found in Swedish waters, and they are all yet to be examined for their pharmacological potential. Preliminary studies show that these peptide toxins have instant actions, and that they likely target ion channels in invertebrates and vertebrates. These pharmacological actions, as well as the venom apparatus of the worms, are homologous to those of cone snails and their toxins. Cone snail toxins have given rise to important pharmacological tools and one drug on the market (Prialt¬Æ/ziconitide), with several more presently undergoing clinical trials, by virtue of their remarkable ion channel specificities. In the current project we will map the diversity and occurrence of toxins, develop methods for their synthesis, and examine their structure and most importantly identify their targets and mode of action. Our results so far convincingly support our hypothesis that nemerteans represent a unique natural resources, which may parallel the success of the cone snail toxins.