Cone snails are renowned for biological peptides, but we show that they also contain small molecules that act on neurons. Bacteria were cultivated from cone snails and other gastropods, and their extracts were screened using a phenotypic assay. These extracts yielded a variety of natural products, often exhibiting selective and potent activity against individual human receptors and ion channels. We are examining these compounds for their therapeutic potential. In addition, we show that some of these bacterial molecules contribute to the chemical arsenal of cone snails.

Neuroactive natural products from mollusks and their associated bacteria

244th National Meeting (2012)

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