New York (PTI): Toads may someday be known for more than bulging eyes, warts and an appetite for insects.

Researchers have found that toad venom extract had some beneficial effect with no side effects for patients suffering from liver, lung and pancreatic cancer.

The venom has been used in China for long to treat cancer.

Researchers from M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, and Fudan University in China say that studies and pre-clinical research have shown that toad venom extract can stop the growth of tumors, improve how the immune system functions, and alleviate pain and fatigue caused by chemotherapy drugs.

The trial at Cancer Hospital, Fudan University was conducted to examine the feasibility safety, maximum tolerated dose and side effects of cancer treatment using HuaChanSu, a type of dried toad venom.