This deadly fish has venom that can cause paralysis and death. However, it also contains a multifunctional lethal protein called stonustoxin, which resembles a human immune protein known for attacking cancerous and infected cells.
These highly venomous sea snails possess neurotoxins harmful to humans. However, research is underway to utilise their venom in developing non-opioid painkillers.
Found in eastern Australia, they are among the most venomous spiders in the world. Australian funnel-web spider’s venom contains a molecule that may protect heart cells during heart attacks.
These lizards from the US states of New Mexico and Arizona have venom that causes pain but is rarely fatal. Researchers identified exendin-4, a hormone in their venom, which can stimulate insulin production and is used to treat type 2 diabetes.
Male platypuses produce venom that includes Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), potentially offering new treatments for type 2 diabetes. This molecule, found in humans as well, promotes insulin release and is more stable than its human counterpart.