Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 8, 2026

Extraction of Venom and Venom Gland Microdissections from Spiders for Proteomic and Transcriptomic Analyses
Published on: November 3, 2014
Applications of Venom Proteins as Potential Anticancer Agents
Samina Ejaz1, Fatima Bashir Hashmi1, Waqas Nazir Malik1
1Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan.
Background:
Venoms, the secretions of venomous animals, are conventionally thought to be the source of toxic substances though the views about venoms in the recent era have been changed. Venoms are the proven source of many biologically and pharmacologically important useful molecules. Bioactive components present in different venoms are mainly proteins and peptides either enzymatic or non-enzymatic which have tremendous therapeutic potential and are being used for the treatment of variety of diseases including cancer. Many venom proteins and peptides have been reported as potential anticancer agents.
Conclusion:
Venom proteins kill cancer cells through a variety of mechanisms which induce apoptosis and ultimately lead to cell death. Therefore, the understanding regarding sources and classification of venoms, biological role of venomous proteins, their anticancer potential and mechanisms to suppress/kill cancer cells needs to be addressed. The present review is an attempt to highlight the reported work and develop strategies to answer the key questions regarding the use of venomous proteins as therapeutic agents.
Related Concept Videos
Local Anesthetics: Common Agents and Their Applications
Cocaine is an ester of benzoic acid and methylecgogine. It is used to anesthetize and vasoconstrict locally. Currently, it is used primarily for topical applications. It is beneficial for surgeries on the upper respiratory tract, providing anesthesia and shrinking the mucosa. Cocaine in the form of cocaine hydrochloride is...
The Resting Membrane Potential
Potential Energy
Chemical bonds that form attractive forces between atoms also contain potential energy, called chemical energy. When a chemical reaction...
Potential Energy
Subviral Agents
Standard Electrode Potentials

