Venom research

Funnel-web spider shows vulnerable side while moulting

The Sydney Funnel-web spider is considered the world’s deadliest spider—but even lethal venomous spiders have a moment of vulnerability when they moult.

Spider venom holds key to addiction-free pain killers

Published on: 15 April 2020

Molecules in tarantula venom could be used as an alternative to opioid pain killers for people seeking chronic pain relief.

Vote for IMB women tackling society's big problems

Published on: 11 February 2020

Four IMB women will share how they are tackling big problems such as obesity and cardiovascular disease, stroke, spinal cord injuries and sheep parasites through the Queensland Women in STEM competition.

Casting a wide web: IMB on the search for spider venom

Published on: 20 January 2020

The Institute for Molecular Bioscience is searching for spiders to help our venom research search for new medicines.

Spider venom stroke treatment slows damage to the brain

Researchers at IMB have uncovered a peptide sourced from spider venom that has the potential to completely change the management of stroke.

Bull ant venom could put the bite on pain

Published on: 13 September 2018

Venom from the giant red bull ant is helping IMB scientists understand the evolution of animal toxins in work that could lead to better treatments for pain.

How the desert bush spider could help development of human drugs and bee-friendly insecticides

From spider venom to human-friendly insecticides

Published on: 27 July 2018

Research into a toxin from the desert bush spider could lead to new treatments for conditions such as pain, cardiac arrhythmia and epilepsy, and could also advance the development of ecofriendly insecticides.

Spiders are a treasure trove of scientific wonder

Australia has an incredible diversity of native spiders, including the potentially lethal funnel-web, the ubiquitous huntsman, and the charming peacock spider.

Animal venoms don’t just cause pain, they may soon be a cure for it too

Bites or stings from venomous animals or insects can be dangerous; they lead to numerous fatalities globally each year despite the development of antivenoms that can neutralise many of their worst effects.

What to do if you burn yourself

Burns are one of the most common injuries, affecting as many as 200,000 Australians each year. This is what to do if a burn occurs.