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Venom peptides in cancer therapy: An updated review on cellular and molecular aspects
Sepideh Mirzaei1, Hojjat Samareh Fekri2, Farid Hashemi3
1Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract:
Based on the high incidence and mortality rates of cancer, its therapy remains one of the most vital challenges in the field of medicine. Consequently, enhancing the efficacy of currently applied treatments and finding novel strategies are of great importance for cancer treatment. Venoms are important sources of a variety of bioactive compounds including salts, small molecules, macromolecules, proteins, and peptides that are defined as toxins. They can exhibit different pharmacological effects, and in recent years, their anti-tumor activities have gained significant attention. Several different compounds are responsible for the anti-tumor activity of venoms, and peptides are one of them. In the present review, we discuss the possible anti-tumor activities of venom peptides by highlighting molecular pathways and mechanisms through which these molecules can act effectively. Venom peptides can induce cell death in cancer cells and can substantially enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Also, the venom peptides can mitigate the migration of cancer cells via suppression of angiogenesis and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Notably, nanoparticles have been applied in enhancing the bioavailability of venom peptides and providing targeted delivery, thereby leading to their elevated anti-tumor activity and potential application for cancer therapy.
Insights
Venom peptides show significant anti-tumor potential by inducing cancer cell death and enhancing current therapies. Nanoparticle delivery further boosts their efficacy for novel cancer treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality, necessitating innovative therapeutic approaches.
- Venoms are rich sources of bioactive compounds, including peptides with potent pharmacological effects.
- The anti-tumor activities of venom-derived peptides are an emerging area of research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the anti-tumor activities of venom peptides.
- To elucidate the molecular pathways and mechanisms underlying their efficacy.
- To explore their potential in combination therapies and targeted delivery systems.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on venom peptides and their anti-cancer properties.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms, including cell death induction, angiogenesis suppression, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition inhibition.
- Investigation of nanoparticle-mediated delivery systems for enhanced peptide bioavailability and targeting.
Main Results:
- Venom peptides demonstrate direct cytotoxic effects on cancer cells.
- These peptides can potentiate the effectiveness of conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
- They inhibit cancer cell migration by suppressing angiogenesis and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition.
Conclusions:
- Venom peptides represent a promising class of compounds for cancer therapy.
- Their mechanisms of action involve direct cytotoxicity and modulation of tumor microenvironment.
- Nanoparticle formulations enhance their therapeutic potential through improved delivery and targeting.
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