Brazilian scientists discover potential of Amazonian spider venom for drugs and insecticides

The venom of the “Acanthoscurria juruenicola” (Tarantula) spider from the Brazilian Amazon can be used in developing drugs and biological insecticides, according to a study by Brazilian scientists released today, Tuesday, by the local press.

“In 2023, it will be 100 years since the description of this species, and only now has the venom been characterized,” said the study coordinator, Alexandre Tashima, a professor at the Federal University of São Paulo (Unifesp).

The unpublished study, reported today by the weekly magazine “Veja”, was published by scientists from Unifesp, the Butantan Institute, and U.S. academics in the “Journal of Proteome Research”.

In total, the researchers found 92 proteins, 14 of which are peptides rich in cysteine, a type of molecule common in spider toxins, and known effects on ion channels and against microorganisms, reported in a statement the Research Support Foundation of the state of São Paulo (Fapesp), which funded the project.

For example, ion channels are proteins used in some treatments and are studied as potential analgesic agents.

“Our biodiversity still brings many good surprises, so environmental conservation is also fundamental. The solution to many problems may be hidden in species that have not yet been discovered or even in others that have been described for a long time, such as this spider,” added the researcher.

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