Venom from the deadly funnel-web spider could soon be the key to preventing damage from heart attacks and strokes, as a “promising” Queensland trial enters its first clinical phase for the treatment.

The Sydney funnel-web spider delivers venom that attacks the nervous system within minutes, though its toxins are now helping treat neurological diseases.

Mark Smythe says funnel-web venom is being trialled on patients to treat heart attacks and stroke. Footage supplied by University of Queensland via AAP ...