Biotoxins for cancer therapy

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Biotoxins, natural toxins from plants, animals, and microorganisms, are increasingly recognized for their therapeutic potential.
• Venoms and toxins represent a biodiverse and largely untapped resource for novel anticancer drug discovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and summarize biotoxins with demonstrated antitumor properties.
• To explore the mechanisms of action, including cytotoxic, antitumor, immunomodulatory, and apoptotic effects, of these natural compounds against various cancer cells.
• To provide insights into the molecular and functional evolution of biotoxins with anticancer activity.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies investigating biotoxins and their anticancer effects.
• Compilation of data on animal toxins, plant toxins, mycotoxins, and bacterial toxins with antitumor activity.
• Analysis of in vivo and in vitro experimental findings on the efficacy of biotoxins against tumor cells.

Main Results:

• Numerous biotoxins exhibit significant cytotoxic, antitumor, immunomodulatory, and apoptotic effects on cancer cells.
• Active compounds derived from snake venom, bee venom, bacteria, and plants show promise as chemotherapeutic agents.
• Evidence supports the potential of biotoxins in inducing cell death and inhibiting tumor growth.

Conclusions:

• Biotoxins are a valuable source for developing novel anticancer therapeutics.
• Further research into the molecular mechanisms and evolution of biotoxins can accelerate the discovery of effective chemotherapeutic agents.
• Natural toxins offer a unique avenue for overcoming limitations of conventional cancer treatments.