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Old 02-17-2012, 06:45 PM   #15
Emithith
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Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: London, Ontario, Maple Syrup Land
Age: 28
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Default Re: Bird-eating spider

Brazilian Wandering Spider, AKA Banana Spider
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_wandering_spider



Quote:
P. fera is widely considered the most venomous species of spider.[1][2] Its venom contains a potent neurotoxin, known as PhTx3, which acts as a broad-spectrum calcium channel blocker that inhibits glutamate release, calcium uptake and also glutamate uptake in neural synapses. At deadly concentrations, this neurotoxin causes loss of muscle control and breathing problems, resulting in paralysis and eventual asphyxiation. In addition, the venom causes intense pain and inflammation following a bite due to an excitatory effect the venom has on the serotonin 5-HT4 receptors of sensory nerves. This sensory nerve stimulation causes a release of neuropeptides such as substance P which triggers inflammation and pain.[5]

Aside from causing intense pain, the venom of the spider can also cause priapism in humans. Erections resulting from the bite are uncomfortable, can last for many hours and can lead to impotence. A component of the venom (Tx2-6) is being studied for use in erectile dysfunction treatments.[6]

The amount of P. nigriventer venom necessary to kill a 20 g mouse has been shown to be only 6 μg intravenously and 134 μg subcutaneously as compared to 110 μg and 200 μg respectively for Latrodectus mactans (Southern black widow). This ranks Phoneutria venom among the most deadly spider venoms to mice. Laboratory mice subjected to P. nigriventer venom experienced intense penile erections before succumbing to the toxin.[7]

Venom from wandering spider injected in human body can lead to death within 2-12 hours. The venom induces release of nitric oxide which acts as a dilating agent and arteries and veins are dilated, it is then followed by increased blood flow in penis and results in a long duration penal erection. Finally the victim dies by a heart stroke[8][9][10].

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Last edited by Emithith; 02-17-2012 at 06:50 PM..
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