Researchers at The University of Queensland have made a fascinating discovery regarding the venom of a notorious caterpillar, which could have significant implications for the delivery of life-saving drugs. Led by Dr. Andrew Walker and Professor Glenn King from UQ's Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the team found that the toxins in the venom of asp caterpillars possess the ability to punch holes in cells, similar to toxins produced by disease-causing bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella.
The researchers were taken aback by the unique composition of asp caterpillar venom, unlike anything observed before in insects. Upon closer examination, they identified proteins that bore striking resemblance to bacterial toxins responsible for causing illness in humans. These particular bacterial toxins bind to cell surfaces and form donut-like structures that create holes in the cells.
Dr. Walker explained, "It's similar to the mechanism of box jellyfish venom—and, as we've now found—caterpillar venom too. The venom in these caterpillars has evolved via the transfer of genes from bacteria more than 400 million years ago."
The asp caterpillar, the larval form of a moth known as Megalopyge opercularis, is native to North America and is often found in oak or elm trees. Despite its seemingly harmless appearance, its long hair-like bristles conceal venomous spines capable of delivering an excruciating sting likened to touching burning coal or experiencing blunt force trauma, often requiring medical attention.
Dr. Walker further commented on the caterpillar's defenses, stating, "Many caterpillars have developed sophisticated defenses against predators, including cyanide droplets and defensive glues that cause severe pain, and we're interested to understand how they are all related."
The potential for harnessing venoms as sources of new molecules with various applications is substantial. They can be developed into future medicines, pesticides, or even scientific tools. While research on snake and spider venoms has already demonstrated their remarkable potential, caterpillar venoms remain largely understudied.
Toxins that puncture cell membranes hold particular promise in drug delivery due to their ability to penetrate cells. Dr. Walker suggests that it may be possible to engineer these molecules to specifically target beneficial drugs to healthy cells or selectively kill cancer cells.
The research, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), sheds light on the intriguing world of caterpillar venoms and their potential contributions to various fields, including drug delivery. Further exploration of these unique compounds could lead to groundbreaking advancements in medicine and therapeutic treatments.
