The real life spider men: researchers create potential treatment for muscular dystrophy from the venom of a tarantula

Discovery could prolong life of sufferers by decades Chemical in spider venom key to new therapy Firm to create treatments already set up

By Mark Prigg

PUBLISHED: 10:34 EST, 17 July 2012 | UPDATED: 10:36 EST, 17 July 2012

She may look like any other giant spider, but scientists say Rosie, a Chilean rose tarantula, may actually hold the key to treating muscular dystrophy.

The spider started out as a pet for Professor Frederick Sachs of the University at Buffalo.

However, he discovered a key chemical in the venom of the spider can fool the body into thinking it is under attack and cause it to beat the disease.

Even Professor Sachs admits the therapy is unusual.

'No one in their right mind would give spider spit to a kid with dystrophy,' he said.

'It's only through the basic science that you can end up here. If you keep your eyes open, you see things you would never have looked for.'

Researchers are developing a treatment for muscular dystrophy using a chemical found in the venom of a Chilean rose tarantula

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The real life spider men: researchers create potential treatment for muscular dystrophy from the venom of a tarantula