Tarantula Venom and Chili Peppers Share Receptor 58
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."
New cookery possibilties! (Score:3, Funny)
Boomer (Score:1, Funny)
[sigh]
Man, i need to get out a little.
D.
Music Reference? (Score:2, Funny)
* = Ear for the laypeople
That's a spicy meat-a-ball! (Score:3, Funny)
Was I the only one (Score:5, Funny)
"New York punk group Tarantula Venom will be opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers at the Receptor on 45th and Broadway
Cure for Tarantula venom? (Score:2, Funny)
Fuck it, I'll take my chances with the spiders!
ObRedMeatComment (Score:3, Funny)
Ouch... (Score:3, Funny)
I'm trying to remember the last time I was bitten by a chili pepper.