Venom from the Brazilian wandering spider (Phoneutria nigriventer) usually causes necrosis or death of the penis and can sometimes lead to amputation.
However, scientists have found that this deadly venom in smaller amounts could help treat erectile dysfunction.
Commonly found in South American countries, the Brazilian wandering spider is also one of the most toxic species, with its venom capable of causing involuntary and painful erections in men.
In addition to these abnormally extended erections, technically known as priapisms, their venom also causes nausea and abdominal cramps.
Scientists from the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais in Brazil have developed a synthetic version of the molecule in the venom that causes the erection.
The molecule, called BZ371A, has been shown to trigger erections in mice and rats when put into a gel and spread on the groins of the animals.
It works by triggering the release of nitric oxide in the body, which in turn boosts blood flow to the genitals in a similar way to Viagra.
But BZ371A has the potential to be more effective and safer than Viagra as the treatment worked in older rats and those with conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, suggesting that this approach might work for humans who can’t take Viagra due to similar conditions.
A pilot test on men and women has already been carried out, showing that the gel is safe for people. However, further clinical trials are needed to determine if this is a genuine Viagra alternative.
Further clinical trials are planned, in which the treatment will be tested in men with erectile dysfunction. Further down the line, the researchers hope it could work for sexual dysfunction in women as well.
Brazilian wandering spiders are also known as ‘banana spiders’ as they are commonly found on banana leaves.
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