On a new genus of dwarf tarantulas (Araneae: Mygalomorphae: Theraphosidae) endemic from Peru: evidence from morphology and molecular phylogeny, with description of three new species

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  On a new genus of dwarf tarantulas ( Araneae : Mygalomorphae : Theraphosidae ) endemic from Peru: evidence from morphology and molecular phylogeny, with description of three new species Abstract Recent field campaigns conducted in Peru along with the examination of museum specimens allowed us to identify small tarantulas that do not fit with any known Theraphosidae genera. Morphology and additional molecular evidence from the mitochondrial gene COI led us to propose Kiskalla gen. nov . from southern Peru, at Puno region. Three new species of Kiskalla gen. nov . ( K. ignacioi sp. nov ., K. yeisoni sp. nov . and K. zukuapasanka sp. nov .) are herein described, diagnosed and illustrated. Kiskalla gen. nov . differs from the known Theraphosinae genera in the presence of lateral stripes on the abdomen and a small dorsal arrowhead-shaped patch of type III urticating setae, presence of a large number of spines on all legs, short and stout setae on the dorsal metatarsi encirc...

Deciphering Scorpion Toxin-Induced Pain: Molecular Mechanisms and Ion Channel Dynamics

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Deciphering Scorpion Toxin-Induced Pain: Molecular Mechanisms and Ion Channel Dynamics

Abstract

Scorpion toxins significantly disrupt the normal function of ion channels, leading to abnormal nerve excitability and severe pain responses. Notably, α-type sodium channel toxins (α-NaTx) and β-type sodium channel toxins (β-NaTx) target sodium channels through distinct mechanisms: α-NaTx prolongs channel opening, while β-NaTx lowers the activation threshold, resulting in persistent nerve overexcitation and heightened pain. This review synthesizes current knowledge on pain-inducing venom peptides isolated from various scorpion species, elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms involving ion channels. Furthermore, it explores the potential applications of these toxins in scientific research and drug development, highlighting their significance in advancing our understanding of pain mechanisms and facilitating the development of novel analgesic therapies.

He D, Lei Y, Qin H, Cao Z, Kwok HF. Deciphering Scorpion Toxin-Induced Pain: Molecular Mechanisms and Ion Channel Dynamics. Int J Biol Sci 2025; 21(7):2921-2934. doi:10.7150/ijbs.109713. https://www.ijbs.com/v21p2921.htm