Venoms classification and therapeutic uses: a narrative review

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Biotechnology
• Drug Discovery

Background:

• Venomous animals inspire fear due to potent toxins.
• Therapeutic molecules derived from venoms are approved for hypertension, chronic pain, and diabetes.
• Proteins and peptides are key active constituents in venoms.

Approach:

• Advancements in biotechnology and drug delivery enhance venom component utilization.
• Novel screening approaches deepen understanding of venom pharmacology.
• Exploration of venom constituents as drug leads is ongoing.

Key Points:

• US-FDA-approved drugs like Captopril, Ziconotide, and Exenatide originate from venom.
• Biotechnology advancements facilitate the study and application of venom peptides.
• Numerous venom-derived peptides are in clinical trials and pre-clinical development.

Conclusions:

• Venom-based therapeutics represent a significant and growing area of drug discovery.
• Continued research into venom pharmacology promises new treatments for diverse medical conditions.
• The review covers venom sources, pharmacological actions, and therapeutic developments.