5 Animals with Venom Used in Medical Research

5. The Platypus and Antibacterial Properties

The platypus, an unusual egg-laying mammal, possesses venom with unique antibacterial properties. While not as potent as other venoms, the platypus venom contains defensins, which are small proteins capable of disrupting bacterial cell membranes. This discovery has sparked interest in the potential of platypus venom as a source of new antibiotics, especially in the face of rising antibiotic resistance. The exploration of such unconventional sources for antimicrobial agents highlights the importance of biodiversity in medical research and the potential for discovering novel solutions to global health challenges.