Researchers from the University of Queensland developed a breakthrough drug, inspired by deadly venom, that could save thousands of lives each year.
The peptide, known as Hi1a, mimics the venom of a funnel-web and can protect the heart mid-heart attack and improve viability of a donor heart.
The federal government has provided $17.6 million in funding for the research project, The Heart Rehab Clinical Trials: Therapeutics to Protect the Human Heart, which will soon kick off clinical trials for heart attacks and heart transplantation.
Professor Glenn King leads the project and believes the drug has the potential to save lives and improve survivors’ quality of life.
Heart attacks are a leading cause of death in Australia, with more than 55,000 Australians suffering from one each year and around 7,000 dying as a result.
In groundbreaking research, the venom of Australia’s deadliest spiders could revolutionize heart attack and transplant treatment. A molecule from funnel-web spider venom has shown promise in protecting the heart during heart attacks. The University of Queensland researchers have developed a life-saving drug inspired by this venom. The peptide, Hi1a, mimics the venom, offering potential benefits in heart attack and heart transplant cases. Backed by $17.6 million in government funding, the project aims to start clinical trials soon. Professor Glenn King’s leadership in this project envisions a future where this drug saves lives and enhances the quality of life for survivors. With heart attacks being a significant cause of death in Australia, this innovative treatment could make a substantial impact in reducing mortality rates.
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