A peptide from an Australian funnel-web spider has been found to kill both human melanoma cells and cancerous Tasmania devil facial tumours that are threatening the survival of the species.

The research, started at Brisbane's QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, also found that the funnel-web compound had almost no negative effects on surrounding healthy cells in either case.

Up close and frightening ... a female funnel-web spider at the Australian Reptile Park. Credit:Jon Reid

The peptide, a compound consisting of two or more amino acids, was extracted from the venom gland but researchers are still trying to determine whether it is from the spider's venom or blood.

Maria Ikonomopoulou, who is now based in Spain conducting independent research, started her work at QIMR Berghofer before moving to Europe.