One of Australia’s most deadly arachnids whose bite can kill in minutes could soon be saving lives rather than taking them.
Queensland researchers have developed a revolutionary drug called IB409, made using funnel web spider venom, that works by preventing cell death during heart attacks and strokes.
For the first time, the experimental treatment is being administered to humans in clinical trials, marking a major breakthrough in cardiovascular medicine.
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WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: How the funnel web spider could save lives.
“In 24 hours, there’ll be 24,000 people that’ll die from a heart attack,” research company Infensa CEO Professor Mark Smythe said.
“There are no drugs out there that protect the heart during a heart attack.”
Researchers say the venom protects tissue during a heart attack or stroke, something they believe no other treatment can do.
The funnel web spider can usually kill within minutes. Credit: 7NEWS
It will also be able to keep organ tissue alive during transplants.
“That recipient gets a heart that has less damage and has better function,” Smythe said.
Forty-eight volunteers are taking part in the trial, which has taken years to reach this stage.
If this phase proves successful, hospital patients could be next to receive the treatment.
“This molecule will be in hospitals, ultimately in the ambulance, the first responders,” Smythe said.
Researchers hope this treatment will be a game changer. Credit: 7NEWS
This isn’t the first time deadly creatures have contributed to life-saving medicine.
The biggest selling drug this year, Ozempic and Wegovy, was derived from molecules found in a venomous lizard, University of Queensland Professor Glenn King said.
Scientists are now on a mission to change medicine and save lives using one of Australia’s most feared spiders.
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