Bioactivity on in vitro systems from peptides derived from scorpion venom

Abstract

Cancer is a pervasive global health challenge, compounded by the limitations of existing chemotherapeutic agents. These treatments frequently encounter obstacles when administered, necessitating exploration into alternative therapeutic approaches. Animal venoms, including those sourced from scorpions, have emerged as promising candidates for novel cancer therapies due to their distinct bioactive properties. Scorpion venoms have demonstrated efficacy against various cancerous processes, providing a valuable foundation for the development of adjunct therapies targeting hormone- dependent cancers such as breast and prostate cancer. In this study, two peptides were designed based on the consensus sequence of scorpion venom. Additionally, in silico analysis was utilized to predict crucial peptide characteristics, guiding subsequent synthesis and evaluation of bioactivity. These peptides underwent rigorous in vitro experimentation using cancer cell lines, notably MDA-MB-231 for breast cancer and PC3 for prostate cancer. Among the tested peptides KV7 exhibited notably promising results, demonstrating favorable cytotoxicity against both MDA-MB-231 and PC3 cells. However, it was observed that KV8 displayed cytotoxicity towards HDFa cells, indicating the imperative need for further refinement to minimize off-target effects and enhance specificity. While these findings suggest the potential of scorpion venom-derived peptides as adjunct therapies for hormone-dependent cancers, further research is imperative to fully elucidate their therapeutic mechanisms and optimize their efficacy. Continued investigation into innovative cancer treatments is paramount to address the unmet medical needs of patients worldwide. This provides insights into the exploration of scorpion venom derived peptides as a promising source of novel cancer therapeutics. Leveraging the unique properties of scorpion venoms, researchers may develop more effective and targeted treatments for hormone-dependent cancers, thereby improving patient outcomes and quality of life. This research underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in the ongoing battle against cancer, highlighting the potential of nature-derived compounds to revolutionize cancer treatment strategies.