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BEE stings could prevent the spread of HIV, doctors have sensationally claimed.

A chemical in the insects' venom can destroy the killer virus while leaving surrounding cells unharmed, research found.

The discovery has been hailed as an important step towards developing a gel that could stem the spread of HIV, which causes AIDS.

HIV ... the bee toxin is loaded onto nanoparticles before attacking the virus

A potent toxin in bee stings called melittin kills HIV cells by punching holes through their protective outer layer.

Scientists loaded the toxin into tiny nanoparticles, which are attached with "bumpers" to make them bounce off normal cells.

But when smaller HIV cells come into contact with the larger nanoparticles, they slip between the bumpers and are attacked by the lethal bee toxin within.

Attack ... melittin (green) fuse with HIV

Dr Joshua L. Hood, who took part in the study at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, US, said the bee toxin could be used in vaginal gel to prevent to prevent HIV from spreading.

He said: Our hope is that in places where HIV is running rampant, people could use this gel as a preventive measure to stop the initial infection.

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Bee stings 'could prevent HIV'