How a Carnivorous Snail Is Advancing Medicine

Cone snails, unlike most land snails, are carnivorous and use venom to hunt prey. Their venom has inspired medical innovations, such as Prialt for chronic pain. Cone snails employ various hunting strategies, including the Taser and Tether method and net capture using insulin, which may lead to fast-acting diabetes treatments. Additionally, they lure polychaetes with pheromones, offering potential for new drug developments. These snails' unique adaptations could solve complex medical challenges.

What role does insulin play in the hunting strategy of certain cone snails?

How do imperial cone snails lure polychaetes out of their burrows?

What potential medical applications do cone snail venoms have?