Therapeutic potential of snake venom in cancer therapy: current perspectives
Vivek Kumar Vyas1, Keyur Brahmbhatt, Hardik Bhatt
1Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmadabad 382 481 Gujarat, India.
Abstract:
Many active secretions produced by animals have been employed in the development of new drugs to treat diseases such as hypertension and cancer. Snake venom toxins contributed significantly to the treatment of many medical conditions. There are many published studies describing and elucidating the anti-cancer potential of snake venom. Cancer therapy is one of the main areas for the use of protein peptides and enzymes originating from animals of different species. Some of these proteins or peptides and enzymes from snake venom when isolated and evaluated may bind specifically to cancer cell membranes, affecting the migration and proliferation of these cells. Some of substances found in the snake venom present a great potential as anti-tumor agent. In this review, we presented the main results of recent years of research involving the active compounds of snake venom that have anticancer activity.
Insights
Snake venom contains active compounds with significant anticancer potential. Research highlights these toxins
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry and Pharmacology
- Toxicology and Drug Discovery
Background:
- Animal secretions are a source for novel therapeutics, particularly for hypertension and cancer.
- Snake venom toxins have a history of contributing to medical treatments.
- Existing literature extensively details the anticancer properties of snake venom.
Discussion:
- Protein peptides and enzymes from snake venom are explored for cancer therapy.
- Isolated venom components can target cancer cell membranes, inhibiting migration and proliferation.
- Certain snake venom substances show considerable promise as anti-tumor agents.
Key Insights:
- Snake venom compounds exhibit specific binding to cancer cell membranes.
- These compounds effectively modulate cancer cell migration and proliferation.
- The review synthesizes recent findings on snake venom's anticancer activities.
Outlook:
- Further research into snake venom's therapeutic potential for oncology.
- Development of novel anti-cancer drugs derived from snake venom components.
- Exploring the mechanisms of action for enhanced anti-tumor efficacy.
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