Understanding how venom develops in cephalopods and its potential medical uses
Official title: Charting the evolutionary development of novel genes and the molecular mechanisms of gland tissue organizationin cephalopods
Funded at Hunter College · NIH-10932134 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cephalopods, like octopuses and squids, develop their venom and how we might use that knowledge to create new medicines that could help treat different health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hunter College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,099,000 |
| NIH project number | 5DP1AT012812-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932134 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals suffering from conditions that could benefit from venom-derived therapeutics, such as chronic pain or cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to the therapeutic applications of venom, or those not responsive to venom-derived treatments, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the evolutionary development of venom in cephalopods, focusing on the molecular mechanisms that organize gland tissues responsible for venom production. By studying these processes, the research aims to create robust models for manipulating venom glands and understanding the regulation of venom bioactive compounds. This could lead to the discovery of new therapeutic agents derived from venom, which may be used to treat various medical conditions. The approach combines genetic manipulation and biological modeling to explore the untapped potential of venom in medicine.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new, effective treatments for conditions such as pain, diabetes, and cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in utilizing venom-derived compounds for therapeutic purposes, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
Hunter College
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Holford, Mande N. — Hunter College
- Study coordinator: Holford, Mande N.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.