Is spider venom the new Viagra? Scientists are investigating an unusual way to treat impotence
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Scientists have discovered that a drug with the venom of the Brazilian traveling spider can help in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in men.
The Brazilian traveling spider (Phoneutria nigriventer) is one of the most toxic spiders, whose venom causes abnormal erection and necrosis of the penis.
But studies show that in smaller amounts, the poison can help induce erections in impotence men, reports Science Alert.
Scientists have produced a gel from spider venom, which has been successfully tested on animals and has already passed the first stage of human trials.
Importantly! This material is based on the latest and current scientific research, is of an informational and reference nature only and cannot be the basis for establishing a medical diagnosis. To establish a diagnosis and receive treatment, be sure to consult a doctor!
| Photo: Rodrigo Tetsuo Argenton/Wikipedia |
Scientists from the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil (UFMG) were able to develop a synthetic version of the molecule BZ371A, which is found in spider venom.
Gel based on this substance was successfully tested on mice and rats. When the gel was applied to the inguinal areas of the animals, they developed an erection.
The treatment worked both on old rats and on subjects with high blood pressure or diabetes.
These effects occur because P. nigriventer venom (and BZ371A) causes the body to release nitric oxide, which increases blood flow to the genitals.
“Viagra” (sildenafil) works in a similar way and makes the penis more sensitive to the released nitric oxide.
Pilot testing on men and women has shown the gel to be safe in humans – although more research is needed to determine whether it is a true alternative to Viagra.
The drug has not yet been approved for sale, but the first phase of clinical trials has been approved by the Brazilian regulator Anvisa.
Scientists will conduct further clinical trials involving men with erectile dysfunction. Also, in the future, the team wants to know whether the drug will help treat sexual dysfunction in women.
Read also: Spiders on a high: NASA studied how different types of drugs affect web weaving. PHOTO
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| Photo: Milkos/Depositphotos |
The discovery could be particularly useful in the fight against cancer, says UFMG professor Maria Elena de Lima. After all, men suffering from prostate cancer often refuse the procedure to remove the prostate, fearing erectile dysfunction.
Scientists hope that the poison-based drug will be able to expand the choice of drugs for impotence and become a new “Viagra”.
After all, the popular active substances “sildenafil” and “tadalafil” are very effective, but they are not suitable for everyone. There is also a risk of low blood pressure and complications for people with heart or liver problems.
After all, the discovery of scientists gives people a message – not to destroy even poisonous animals.
The team of researchers emphasizes the value of preserving biodiversity in the animal world, as it provides humanity with many natural chemicals.
As a reminder, the Brazilian traveling spider is also known as the “banana spider” because it can often be found on a banana leaf.
In the wild, it lives in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay.
A large dose of venom released by the spider causes mammals to have a very painful and prolonged erection, as well as nausea and abdominal cramps.
Therefore, we urge you not to engage in self-medication and do not approach poisonous spiders.
Read also: “They counted the hairs in the nostrils”: Harvard awarded the laureates of the 2023 Ignobel Prize
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