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A Harvester Ant Venom: Chemistry and Pharmacology

1978; American Association for the Advancement of Science; Volume: 200; Issue: 4345 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1126/science.653354

1095-9203

Justin O. Schmidt, Murray S. Blum,

Healthcare and Venom Research

The mammalian toxicity of the potently algogenic venom of the ant Pogonomyrmex badius is greater than that reported for any other insect venom. This enzyme-rich venom contains high concentrations of phospholipase A2 and B, hyaluronidase, acid phosphatase, lipase, and esterases. This hemolytic secretion from the poison gland products unusual symptoms in mammals and appears to have been evolved as a deterrent for vertebrate predators.