https://doi.org/10.4081/jbr.2026.14831
Comparative effect of cnidarian venoms on the action potential firing of superior cervical ganglion neurons
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Published: 28 May 2026
Cnidarians are considered the most ancient venomous phylum on Earth. Their venom is a complex mixture of bioactive compounds that produce a myriad of signs and symptoms in humans. Additionally, studies have revealed the presence of molecules with remarkably pharmacological potential as modulators of immune responses and ion channels. Herein, we have used Superior Cervical Ganglion (SCG) neurons to assess the effects of five cnidarian species on the action potential firing. Although all venoms tested significantly slowed down the firing rate, differential underlying mechanisms were observed between anthozoan and cubozoan species. These findings show the presence of neurotoxins in all five cnidarian species as modulators of neuronal excitability and reveal differential mechanisms between anthozoans and cubozoans. The underlying mechanisms, likely involving changes in receptors and ion channel kinetics, are key pieces in advanced drug design with clinical purposes.
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