From ancient biological warfare to modern medicine: the dual nature of venom
In short: Venom is one of nature's oldest evolutionary weapons, appearing millions of years before speed or stealth. While we often associate these toxins with death, marine chemical biologist Mandë Holford suggests that the same substances used to kill could eventually be harnessed to treat human diseases like cancer.
The evolutionary history of venom is remarkably ancient. It emerged as a biological tool millions of years before other survival traits like cunning or speed. Today, venom is found in 25% of all animal groups, ranging from sedentary sea anemones to scorpions. This biological phenomenon has developed independently across various species. It is currently present in a quarter of all animal groups.
Humans have long sought to weaponize this natural phenomenon. In antiquity, Scythian warriors utilized a gruesome mixture of viper venom, human blood, and animal faeces, allowing the concoction to putrefy underground before coating their arrow tips. Military commanders have also used venom as a tactical surprise; Hannibal Barca famously ordered snake-filled pots to be thrown onto enemy ships, and during the siege of Hatra in 198, defenders rained venomous arthropods, such as scorpions and assassin bugs, down upon the Roman army. This method of warfare dates back to ancient times. Even during the siege of Hatra, defenders used these creatures to repel Roman forces.
Despite its lethal reputation, the chemical complexity of venom offers profound medical potential. Research by scientists like Mandë Holford explores how these substances might be repurposed for healing. While the exact mechanisms of many venoms remain mysterious, the goal is to transition from using venom as a tool for destruction to using it as a sophisticated way to treat life-threatening conditions, including cancer. Scientists are investigating how these toxins might be repurposed. This research could eventually lead to breakthroughs in treating various human ailments.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: The power of venom -- and how it could one day save your life | Mandë Holford | TED
- Also: Mastering venom | Natural History Museum
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