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Characterization of Hottentotta judaicus Scorpion Venom: Toxic Effects and Neurobehavioral Modulation in Insect
Rim Wehbe1, Aline Karaki1, Zeina Dassouki2
1Biology Department, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon.
Toxins
|November 26, 2025
Summary
Hottentotta judaicus scorpion venom (HjSV) shows no toxicity to human cancer cells but effectively kills insects. This venom also alters fruit fly behavior, suggesting potential for pest control applications.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Toxicology
- Entomology
Background:
- Scorpion venoms are sources of bioactive molecules.
- Hottentotta judaicus scorpion venom (HjSV) is understudied.
- Buthidae scorpion venoms are known for toxicity and therapeutic potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the chemical composition of HjSV.
- To evaluate the cytotoxic effects of HjSV on human cancer cell lines.
- To assess the insecticidal activity and behavioral effects of HjSV on model organisms.
Main Methods:
- Liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS) for composition analysis.
- In vitro cytotoxicity assays on human cancer cell lines.
- Insecticidal assays on Drosophila melanogaster, Aedes albopictus, and Culex pipiens.
- Behavioral analysis of D. melanogaster exposed to sub-lethal doses of HjSV.
Main Results:
- HjSV exhibits a complex composition.
- HjSV demonstrated no significant cytotoxicity against tested human cancer cell lines up to 1000 µg/mL.
- HjSV displayed dose-dependent insecticidal effects, with mosquitoes being more susceptible than D. melanogaster.
- Sub-lethal HjSV doses reduced locomotor activity and increased sleep duration in D. melanogaster.
Conclusions:
- HjSV possesses selective insecticidal properties and lacks cytotoxicity to human cancer cells.
- Mosquitoes are more sensitive to HjSV than D. melanogaster, indicating species-specific susceptibility.
- HjSV acts as a behavioral modulator in insects, affecting activity and sleep.
- HjSV has potential applications in pest control strategies due to its insecticidal and behavioral effects.
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