Set aside your arachnophobia (fear of spiders) if you can, the mighty tarantula could be coming to the rescue of some people with type 2 diabetes.
A team of researchers, led by Professor Nigel Irwin at Ulster University and funded by Diabetes UK, have found molecules in tarantula venom could offer a new treatment for people with type 2 diabetes.
The molecule from the venom of a Mexican Blonde tarantula (pictured) has been found to increase insulin production, lower blood sugar levels and decrease food intake in mice.
While tarantulas give some people the creeps because of their large, hairy bodies and legs, they are harmless to humans (except for a painful bite), and their mild venom is weaker than a typical bee’s.
https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1430262/Type-2-diabetes-treat-tarantula-venom
