From Toxins to Treasures: Arachnid Venoms as a Source of Bioactive Molecules

The relationship between humans and arachnids can best be characterised as ambivalent, with popular media brandishing venomous spiders and scorpions as ruthless killers and some people even experience arachnophobia, i.e. an irrational fear of spiders resulting in severe anxiety, panic attacks, and avoidance behaviors. On the other hand, a growing number of enthusiasts are fascinated by arachnids and even keep them as pets in their homes. Arachnid venom research has also been ambivalent, starting out with a historic focus on medically important species aiming to develop antivenoms for treating arachnid bites and stings in humans. In recent decades, scientific methodologies improved significantly and the adaption of “omics” techniques enabled the sampling of a much broader taxonomic diversity of arachnids. Furthermore, the research focus shifted towards identifying bioactive molecules that might be used for human benefits across many different fields, including as therapeutics, bioinsecticides or molecular research tools.The diversity of known arachnids is constantly increasing, with an average of over 1,000 new spider species being added every year. Despite increasing research efforts and research techniques becoming ever more sophisticated, toxinological research on arachnids is struggling to keep up with the pace at which new species are being added. Furthermore, the potential applications of arachnid toxins are also further diversifying. This Research Topic aims to provide an overview of ongoing research in arachnid toxinology field and highlight novel applications of arachnid venoms and research on previously unstudied arachnid taxa. In addition, it will provide a forum for bringing together the leading researchers in the field to develop strategies for getting a grip on the increasing taxonomic diversity from a toxinological perspective.This Research Topic aims to showcase current research on arachnid venoms and toxins from any venomous arachnid species that is aimed at benefiting humanity in any way. This for example includes, but is not limited to, the identification and development of arachnid toxins as leads for developing human or veterinary drugs, antivenoms, diagnostics, or toxins for targeting pests and parasites of humans, crops, livestock or companion animals. In addition, many peptide toxins from arachnid venoms exhibit considerable selectivity and potency against specific molecular targets such as ion channels. This makes them ideal molecular probes to study the pharmacology of these channels and their corresponding physiological effects. Types of articles that will be considered for Original Research Papers, Short Communications, Methods and Review Papers. Topic editors: Volker Herzig, Tim Lüddecke, Shaodong Guo Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80047/from-toxins-to-treasures-arachnid-venoms-as-a-source-of-bioactive-molecules