Thomas Lund Koch

Sparse autoencoder features from InterPLM predict neuropeptide precursors among secreted proteins

The paper introduces a method using sparse autoencoder features from InterPLM to predict neuropeptide precursors from secreted proteins across species.

From Neuropeptides to Toxins: Illuminating the Origins of Venom Complexity in Cone Snails

The paper identifies how neuropeptide genes in cone snails evolved into toxins through mechanisms like exon shuffling and transposable element-driven recombination, revealing dynamic genome-molecular innovation interactions.

Mimics of the chordate gut-brain hormone neurotensin in parasitic intestinal hookworms

This study identifies a new family of hookworm peptides that mimic the chordate gut-brain hormone neurotensin, showing structural and functional similarity to modulate gut function.

Conkazal-M1 from the MKAVA family of conotoxins - a dual-function protease inhibitor and neuroactive peptide

This study characterizes conkazal-M1, a conotoxin from Conus magus, showing it acts as both a protease inhibitor and a neuroactive peptide.

Prey-specific toxins provide broad venom activity in cephalopods

The paper identifies prey-specific toxins in cephalopod venom, including neurotensin-mimicking peptides that target fish, revealing an evolutionary strategy for broad venom activity.

Venom-inspired somatostatin receptor 4 (SSTR4) agonists as new drug leads for peripheral pain conditions

This study identifies venom-derived SSTR4 agonists as potential non-opioid therapeutics for peripheral pain conditions.

Structural similarities reveal an expansive conotoxin family with a two-finger toxin fold

The paper uses structural bioinformatics to identify a new conotoxin family with a two-finger toxin fold, revealing evolutionary relationships among rapidly evolving genes.

Phylogenetic Diversity and Venom Gland Transcriptomics of Palauan Cone Snails (Conidae)

The paper uses mitochondrial sequencing and venom-gland transcriptomics to study phylogenetic relationships and venom gene diversity in Palauan cone snails.

Placozoan secretory cell types implicated in feeding, innate immunity and regulation of behavior

The paper identifies secretory cell types in placozoans involved in feeding, immunity, and behavior regulation using single-cell transcriptomics and imaging techniques.