Tarantula Venom and Chili Peppers Share Receptor

FiReaNGeL writes "Scientists have discovered that venom from a West Indian tarantula has been shown to cause pain by exciting the same nerve cells in mice that sense high temperatures and the hot, spicy ingredient in chili peppers. The findings demonstrate that some plants and animals have evolved the same molecular strategy to deter predators — triggering pain by activating a specific receptor on sensory nerves. The research provides new tools to understand how these pain- and heat-sensing neurons work, and to help develop drugs that ease persistent pain."

Comments

Was I the only one

[dkleinsc]

who thought the title sounded like something out of Rolling Stone:

"New York punk group Tarantula Venom will be opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers at the Receptor on 45th and Broadway ..."