Functional evolution and therapeutic potential of snake venom coagulotoxins

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This project aims to identify and understand the factors that influence the useful function of key residues (parts of larger compounds) in Australian snake venom coagulotoxins, which alter blood-clotting ability. In recent years, snake venom compounds have been demonstrated as useful models from which to synthesise therapeutic drugs to improve health and well-being. This project will test these important toxins on model systems that represent natural prey items in order to determine the molecular and functional evolution of blood-clot forming enzymes. Expected outcomes include substantial contributions to the body of evolutionary biology knowledge, as well as narrowing the search for the ultimate drug candidates.