How can researchers use the venom?
Scientists use the venom to conduct studies, not only for medical purposes, but for understanding more about other types of science. The amino acid sequences of the peptides can be studied to understand more about the different varieties that are produced, and how they are linked on an evolutionary scale. The targets of these peptides, mostly voltage-gated ion channels through which certain ions are carried in and out of cells, can be studied in more detail and understood by studying the venom. The components of the venom are studied for pharmacological purposes, or for their medicinal properties. Prialt is one drug currently approved by the FDA that was created from Conus magus. There are other drugs being developed as well for pain and hopefully neurological disorders like epilepsy.
