5 Animals with Venom Used in Medical Research

2. Cone Snails and Chronic Pain Relief

Cone snails, marine mollusks known for their beautiful shells and potent venom, have become a focus of research for chronic pain management. The venom of the Conus magus species contains a peptide called ziconotide, which has been developed into a drug for severe pain relief. Ziconotide works by blocking calcium channels in nerve cells, preventing pain signals from reaching the brain. Unlike traditional opioids, it does not cause addiction or respiratory depression, offering a safer alternative for pain management. This discovery highlights the potential of marine venoms in providing new solutions for complex medical challenges, particularly in the realm of pain management.