
Venomous
How Earth's Deadliest Creatures Mastered Biochemistry
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Narrated by:
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Emily Rankin
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By:
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Christie Wilcox
A thrilling tale of encounters with nature's masters of biochemistry.
In Venomous, molecular biologist Christie Wilcox investigates venoms and the animals that use them, revealing how they work, what they do to the human body, and how they can revolutionize biochemistry and medicine today.
Wilcox takes us from the coast of Indonesia to the rainforests of Peru in search of the secrets of these mysterious animals. We encounter jellyfish that release microscopic venom-packed darts known to kill humans in just two minutes, a two-inch caterpillar with toxic bristles that trigger hemorrhaging throughout the body, and a stunning blue-ringed octopus with saliva capable of inducing total paralysis. How could an animal as simple as a jellyfish evolve such an intricate, deadly poison? And how can a snake possess enzymes that tear through tissue yet leave its own body unscathed?
Wilcox meets the fearless scientists who often risk their lives studying these lethal beasts to find out and puts her own life on the line to examine these species up close. Drawing on her own research on venom chemistry and evolution, she also shows how venom is helping us untangle the complex mechanisms of some of our most devastating diseases.
Venomous reveals that the animals we fear the most actually hold the keys to a deeper understanding of evolution, adaptation, and immunity. Thrilling and surprising at every turn, Venomous will change the way you think about our natural world.
©2016 Christie Wilcox (P)2016 Random House AudioListeners also enjoyed...




















Very superficial overview.
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Fascinating subject, well written and superbly presented
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Most interesting nonfiction book!
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Such a fun book!
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Now I must learn more about these jewel wasps!
I've been stung
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Would you listen to Venomous again? Why?
Yes, good information presented in a bright, happy way.What other book might you compare Venomous to and why?
The Emperor of all maladies. Science with heart and compassion.What about Emily Rankin’s performance did you like?
Lively, the right emphasis, interested in what she is reading, Involved in the story.Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
Lady with lime disease bitten by African killer bees.Any additional comments?
Thank you for the work making this book.Emily is amazing
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Left me thoroughly wanting to know more.
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Absolutely Fascinating
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I loved learning the difference between venomous and poisonous animals; how both hematoxins and neurotoxins can vary in their compositions and potency depending on what it’s used for; and how we can harness the power of say scorpion venom, to aid in pediatric brain surgery.
If you’re in need of an interesting non-fiction read, I definitely recommend. Great narration as well.
Perfect read for the perpetual learners
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A treatise on "toxinology"
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