Brains, in essence, are only neurons, whether they are human or insect brains. There are potentially millions of venom compounds that can activate or deactivate neurons. As a result, it should come as no surprise that certain venoms target the delicately guarded central nervous system, which includes our brains. Some overcome anatomical barriers, such as remote injection sites in the body and the blood-brain barrier, to gain access to their victims’ brains. Others, like the jewel wasp and its zombie cockroach host, are immediately inserted into the brain.
