Researchers from the University of Queensland in Australia began clinical tests of the drug developed on the basis of spiders to treat myocardial infarction.
As reported on the University’s website, the drug was developed from the poison of the labyrinth spider (Aglena Labyrinthica), one of the most poisonous arthropods in the world.
Researchers believe that the peptide found in the spider, known as Hi1a, can not only prevent tissue damage during a heart attack, but also protect the transplanted heart.
Tests will begin thanks to the transfer of the Future Research Fund (MRFF) in the amount of about $ 12 million and will last about four years.
Clinical trials will identify the potential of the drug, scientists believe. “In case of success, the drug will significantly reduce health care costs, and will also increase the chances of patients for survival and improvement of the quality of life,” the report said.