![]() ![]() These findings were supported further by the detection of isomerase activity in the platypus gland venom extract that converts DLP-4 into DLP-2. In the present study, we show that DLP-2 (defensin-like peptide-2), a 42-amino-acid residue polypeptide in the platypus venom, also contains a D-amino acid residue, D-methionine, at position 2, while DLP-4, which has an identical amino acid sequence, has all amino acids in the L-form. Hopefully, one day we will be able to improve existing treatment by utilising this stable GLP hormone from the platypus.The recent discovery that the natriuretic peptide OvCNPb ( Ornithorhynchus venom C-type natriuretic peptide B) from platypus ( Ornithorynchus anatinus) venom contains a D-amino acid residue suggested that other D-amino-acid-containing peptides might be present in the venom. The next step is to test the molecule’s effect on blood sugar levels in mice in order to see how it responds in a different animal. “This is an amazing example of how millions of years of evolution can shape molecules and optimise their function,” said one of the lead authors, Professor Frank Grutzner.Īlthough this is a great finding, there will be lots of future research needed to make this into a treatment for type 2 diabetes. But as these stable molecules are in high demand for type 2 diabetes treatment, it is exciting to find a new source of them. Echidnas have also been found to produce this venom but lack the spurs to secrete it, though no one knows yet why this might be. Therefore the platypus version of GLP has a longer-lasting effect than the human version, both in their venom and for releasing insulin in their pancreas. Because this molecule needs to accommodate both functions, being present in the venom has driven GLP hormone to be more resistant to degradation over time and in fact it involves a completely different mechanism. Platypuses produce GLP hormone in their gut just like we do, but they have also put it to use in their venom, although what role it plays exactly is still unknown. The bone spur of a male platypus is located on the hind limbs, and secretes their venom/ Wikimedia Commons ![]() Now this new research, published in Scientific Reports, has discovered that platypuses and their relatives have evolved a longer-lasting GLP hormone naturally, allowing for the possibility of a novel treatment to be developed. Treatment currently involves giving patients medication that contains a longer lasting variant of the hormone, making the cells more responsive, to give extended insulin release. It can also be caused by abnormally high glucagon levels in the blood, which counter-acts the effect of insulin. ![]() With type 2 diabetes, the GLP hormone is not enough to manage the blood sugar levels, due to cells being unable to properly respond to the amount of insulin released. However, it has a short life, breaking down within minutes. This hormone causes insulin to be a released into our bodies to reduce our blood sugar levels. To be able to release insulin, humans and animals have create a substance in their gut called glucagon-like peptide (GLP) hormone. It is insulin that creates the problems in diabetics. Our blood sugar levels are controlled by hormones produced by our pancreas: glucagon increases the amount of sugar in our blood, and insulin lowers it. Evolutionary pressures have caused the hormone that is produced in both the platypus’ gut and venom to be highly effective, and this may soon reap benefits for humans. New research led by the University of Adelaide and Flinders University has revealed that a possible treatment for type 2 diabetes could originate from platypus ( Ornithorhynchus anatinus) venom. ![]()
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