Deadly Spider Venom Used In Groundbreaking Treatment For Heart Attacks And Strokes
Scientists are developing a drug from the venom of one of the world's deadliest spiders to prevent the damage caused by a heart attack or a stroke. Soon, it'll head to clinical trials
Some people believe that nature is home to all cures waiting to be found. And now, an usual heart attack treatment is testimony to how unusual treatments could save lives.
Scientists are developing a drug from the venom of one of the world's deadliest spiders to prevent the damage caused by a heart attack or a stroke. Soon, it'll head to clinical trials.
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A drug like no other
The experimental drug was developed by researchers from the University of Queensland in Australia. They used a molecule from the venom of K'gari funnel-web spider (also known as Fraser Island spider) to develop this drug unlike any other in history.
Clinical trials of the same drug are expected to begin before the end of 2023, and researchers hope it will be useful for first responders in the future. The drug candidate is called "IB001," and has been licenced to Brisbane startup Infensa Bioscience.
Professor Glenn King / University of Queensland
Also read: Scientists Mutate Critter To Create Ghastly Spider-Like Creature With Short Legs
After a heart attack, the heart is unable to regenerate muscle cells that died during the attack. "IB001 blocks the signals that cause heart cells to die, and when given immediately to heart attack victims could reduce damage to the heart and significantly improve outcomes for people with heart disease, particularly in rural and remote regions," said University of Queensland's Mark Smythe who's also the CEO of Infensa.
K'gari funnel-web spider / University of Queensland
Currently, there are no drugs to prevent the brain from a stroke. Patients are usually forced to wait to be taken to a hospital before any treatment is given after strokes. "As soon as the person is found, regardless of the type of stroke, they can get some protection on board," said Professor Glenn King from the University of Queensland.
Also read: Spider Webs Could Help Track Microplastic Pollution Levels In The Air: Here's How
What do you think about harnessing the power of spider venom to treat life-threatening conditions? Let us know in the comments below. For more in the world of technology and science, keep reading Indiatimes.com.
References
Kearnan, J. (2022, July 4). Heart attack treatment using K¡¯gari funnel-web spider venom one step closer to human trial. ABC.Au.
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