Toxinomics Foundation

CONCO
The Cone Snail Genome Project for Health

Venomous animals represent a major source of highly selective and efficient bioactive compounds that have already led to the development of several new drugs. The latest FDA approved example is Prialt®, a peptide originating from the venom of a cone snail (Conus magus).

CONCO ( www.conco.eu ) is an innovative post-genomic project dedicated to the discovery and development of novel biopharmaceuticals generated by the broad biodiversity of cone snails. The project aims at characterising from the genomic up to potential therapeutic properties all the putative bioactive compounds that can be synthesised by a cone snail species Conus consors. The genome and transcriptome of these animals will be exhaustively studied. Large amounts of venom will be fractionated and submitted to proteomic studies to generate a biochemically characterised “natural library”of compounds.
- Picture by T. Parel -

Large scale synthesis of each identified candidate will be achieved to form a “synthetic library”of compounds. The biological activity of these two libraries will be investigated on a panel of physiological targets that are recognised of therapeutic value. Selected hits will be optimised and validated vivo. A publicly accessible web-based database will be developed and annotated to integrate and share all the knowledge generated by the project.

One lead compound, XEP-018, has already been identified in the venom of consors and has recently been patented by applicants with vivo proof of concept of its valuable therapeutic properties. During the project XEP-018 will be moved through pre-clinical to Phase-I clinical trials for pain control and local anaesthesia. This drug development process will be taken in charge by the Toxinomics Foundation.

The Foundation will also be responsible for science dissemination, communication and education around this project. In this respect the Toxinomics Foundation intends for example to set up an exhibition, publish press articles and books, and produce a documentary film about these beautiful and intriguing animals.