by Gil Kane, 1975

Dr. Curtis Connors

(See also The Lizard)

Occupation: Research Bilogist
Known Relatives: Martha Connors (wife); William "Billy" Connors (son)
First Appearance: Amazing Spider-Man #6
Status: No criminal record

History:

Dr. Curtis Connors was an Army surgeon whose right arm was amputated when ti became gangrenous from a war wound. Unable to remain a surgeon, Connors undertook the scientific study of reptiles, soon becoming a leading authority. Specializing in reptiles for their ability to regenerate missing limbs, Connors discovered the precise chemical substance that confers this ability, and administered it to himself. He succeeded in regenerating his missing arm, but the effects of the chemical caused a complete transformation into a reptilian-humanoid form. Spider-Man managed to concoct a serum to reverse the immediate effects of the transformation, but the changes caused by the chemical remained causing Connors to periodical revert to the Lizard.

Dr. Connors owes Spider-Man many times over for Spider-Man's assistance in conquering his Lizard persona. Since their first meeting, Spider-Man and Dr. Connors have remained friends, and Spider-Man often turns to Curtis when he needs scientific expertise outside his own realm of experience (particular biological expertise). Dr. Connors has often helped Spider-Man out on cases. The first such instance was when Dr. Connors developed an acid to remove the Rhino's artificial hide (Amazing Spider-Man #43). Later, Dr. Connors and his family was kidnapped by the Maggia (and Silvermane) to decipher the biochemical symbols on an ancient tablet giving Silvermane a Serum of Youth. Due Spider-Man's intervention (and Connors transformationt to the Lizard), the Connors were rescued from the Maggie (Amazing Spider-Man #73-#75). When Spider-Man mutated himself to have a total of six arms, he called upon Connors for a place to hide and for Connors expertise in biological matters to remove the extra arms (Amazing Spider-Man #101). Most importantly, Dr. Connors was the man called upon to help Spider-Man determine if he was the original or the Jackal's Spider-Clone (Amazing Spider-Man #150).