J. M. Surm

Sea anemone MACPF proteins demonstrate an evolutionary transitional state between venomous and developmental functions

The paper shows MACPF proteins in sea anemones evolved from venomous to developmental functions through gene duplication and reverse-recruitment.

Venom tradeoff shapes interspecific interactions, physiology and reproduction

This study shows that reducing Nv1 toxin levels in sea anemones decreases predator defense but increases growth and reproductive rates, revealing a venom tradeoff.

A pan-cnidarian microRNA is an ancient biogenesis regulator of stinging cells

The paper identifies miR-2022 as a conserved microRNA essential for cnidocyte biogenesis across cnidarian species.

Dominant toxin hypothesis: unravelling the venom phenotype across micro and macroevolution

The paper investigates toxin expression dynamics in sea anemones, finding that a single toxin family dominates venom phenotype across species and populations, with significant variation in gene copy numbers and geographical distribution.

Functional characterization of a "plant-like" HYL1 homolog in the cnidarian Nematostella vectensis indicates a conserved involvement in microRNA biogenesis

The paper shows that a HYL1 homolog in Nematostella vectensis is essential for miRNA biogenesis and development, suggesting an ancestral miRNA system in animals and plants.

Toxin-like neuropeptides in the sea anemone Nematostella unravel recruitment from the nervous system to venom

The paper identifies a toxin-like neuropeptide in Nematostella vectensis that evolved from a neuropeptide gene into a venom component through duplication and functional specialization.

Population Specific Adaptations in Venom Production to Abiotic Stressors in a Widely Distributed Cnidarian

The study examines how abiotic stressors affect venom production in Nematostella vectensis across its geographic range, finding that toxin expression varies with local adaptation.

The rapid regenerative response of a model sea anemone species Exaiptasia pallida is characterised by tissue plasticity and highly coordinated cell communication

This study identifies key genes and pathways involved in the rapid regeneration of Exaiptasia pallida, highlighting tissue plasticity and coordinated cell communication.