Search Results (2,203)

Melittin, the principal active peptide of bee venom, exhibits potent cytotoxicity against cancer cells. However, its lipid-level mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we present the first untargeted lipidomic dataset that reveals melittin-induced lipid remodeling in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells (MDA-MB-231). Cells were exposed to 4 μg/mL of melittin for 15 min, and lipid extracts were analyzed by employing high-resolution LC–MS/MS in both ion modes. Data were processed with XCMS and metaX for peak extraction, normalization, and metabolite annotation, followed by multivariate and KEGG pathway analyses. The results highlight significant alterations in phospholipids, sphingolipids, and acylglycerols, indicative of melittin-mediated disruption of membrane integrity and lipid metabolism. All raw and processed data are publicly accessible at NGDC (accession number PRJCA048975). This dataset not only serves as a comprehensive resource for investigating lipid-based mechanisms underlying melittin’s anticancer effects but also supports its potential in lipid-targeted therapeutic strategies for TNBC. Full article

Scorpion venom peptides, with their stable disulfide backbone, compact structural framework, and highly selective regulation of ion channels, have long been regarded as important molecular probes in neuropharmacology. However, recent studies have revealed their potential for regulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuroprotection, making them a new research frontier. In this article, we focus on scorpion venom peptides as drugs, constructing an integrated knowledge framework from structural classification to clinical translation. First, scorpion venom peptides are systematically classified based on cysteine arrangement patterns and three-dimensional folding topology, and their structure–activity relationships are summarized. Based on this, the molecular mechanisms by which scorpion venom peptides regulate ion channels are systematically analyzed. We review the emerging pharmacological activities of scorpion venom peptides. Of particular note, the representative molecule SVHRSP has shown multi-target synergistic antioxidant and neuroprotective activity in models of Parkinson’s disease. We also systematically evaluate the application of engineering strategies, including cyclisation modification, nanodelivery, recombinant expression, and AI-assisted optimization, to overcome the translational bottlenecks in the development of scorpion venom peptides. However, it should be noted that most SVHRSP-related findings have been reported by a single research group; independent replication, pharmacokinetic characterization, and human efficacy data are still lacking. Its IND approval permits clinical investigation but does not yet constitute proven therapeutic benefit in patients. By integrating molecular structure, redox regulation mechanisms, and translational medicine perspectives, this review aims at providing a theoretical basis and practical pathways for scorpion venom peptides as precision therapeutic molecules for oxidative stress-related diseases. Full article

Hantaviruses (HTVs) are lethal zoonotic pathogens responsible for hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome and HTV cardiopulmonary syndrome; however, no specific antiviral treatments or vaccines have been approved. Bee products, such as propolis, honey, royal jelly, bee venom, and bee pollen, demonstrate extensive antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties against various RNA and DNA viruses. No published research has directly evaluated bee products in relation to HTV infection. This review proposes a hypothesis-driven mechanistic framework suggesting that bioactive compounds from bee products may concurrently inhibit HTV replication, alleviate the cytokine storm, diminish oxidative stress, and maintain endothelial barrier integrity. We explicitly recognize the lack of direct experimental evidence regarding bee products’ efficacy against HTVs. Considering the mechanistic similarities with other enveloped viral infections and the recognized functions of NF-κB, Nrf2, and endothelial signaling pathways in HTV pathogenesis, we present a scientifically substantiated rationale for forthcoming research endeavors. The diverse bioactive compounds present in bee products including bee pollen, bee venom, honey, propolis, and royal jelly could provide a multifaceted strategy for inhibiting HTV pathology. We propose systematic in vitro, in silico, and in vivo investigations to assess the potential of bee-derived flavonoids, peptides, and fatty acids as adjunctive therapeutic strategies for HTV disease. Full article

In many parasitoid insects, especially hymenopteran parasitoids, venom is delivered around oviposition to override host physiology. Once viewed as a narrowly immunosuppressive secretion, parasitoid venom is now recognized as a multifunctional effector system targeting host immunity, development, metabolism, and behavior. This review synthesizes the venom apparatus, identification strategies, mechanisms of host manipulation, evolutionary processes, and biocontrol prospects, drawing primarily on Hymenoptera. A consistent pattern emerges: comparable host phenotypes arise from divergent molecular scaffolds, indicating functional rather than molecular convergence. Mechanistic evidence is strongest along six interlocking axes: inhibition of the prophenoloxidase cascade and melanization, disruption of cellular and humoral immunity, developmental arrest, metabolic reprogramming, and neuromuscular or behavioral manipulation. Outside Hymenoptera, the coleopteran ectoparasitoid Dastarcus helophoroides offers one of the clearest comparative cases: parasitization inhibits host melanization, alters phenoloxidase activity, and reduces antibacterial activity and circulating hemocyte abundance. As of today, fifty putative venom-like candidate proteins have been identified from larval whole-body proteomics, yet the secretory tissue remains anatomically unresolved, and no individual effector has been functionally validated. The central challenge is therefore the transition from candidate catalogs to mechanistically resolved repertoires, particularly outside Hymenoptera. Closing this gap will be important for evolutionary inference and the rational development of venom-based biocontrol tools. Full article

Despite the vast biodiversity of Mexican vipers, venom of endemic species has been barely studied. Here we analyzed the venom composition of three endemic species of rattlesnakes: Crotalus aquilus, C. triseriatus, and C. ravus. We used quantitative chromato-mass-spectrometry and compared venoms with C. molossus, a species commonly found in North America, in a comparative and phylogenetic framework. In total, we identified 165 proteins grouped in 19 main protein families, consistent with previous reports for viperid venoms. In C. aquilus and C. triseriatus, the most predominant protein-family type was Serine Proteases, and in C. triseriatus and C. molossus it was Snake Venom Metalloproteases. The Label-free quantification revealed a high proportion of Snake Venom Metalloproteases in C. aquilus, C. triseriatus, and C. molossus, reaching 28–47% of the total venom. In contrast, in C. ravus 47% of the venom was composed of Phospholipases A₂. Among the four species analyzed, C. triseriatus and C. aquilus were most similar in compositional profiles and their profiles are highly correlated. Venom composition in terminal clades and taxa were better explained by protein losses than evolution of new proteins. The triseriatus group share seven proteins, while the clade C. aquilus + C. triseriatus share seven derived protein features, of which six are protein losses. Full article

Emerging tolerance of Schistosoma mansoni to praziquantel, the only drug available for schistosomiasis treatment, highlights the need for new therapeutic targets. Snake venoms contain pharmacologically active proteins and peptides that can decrease the viability of S. mansoni worms in vitro. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in S. mansoni and are promising new therapeutic targets. However, new candidates still need to be identified, as only four S. mansoni lncRNAs have been functionally characterized to date. Therefore, we investigated lncRNA expression changes in S. mansoni following incubation with Bothrops venoms. Adult worms were incubated with eight venoms at a sublethal dose, and phenotypic parameters were evaluated. RNA-Seq was conducted on worms incubated with Bothrops jararacussu or Bothrops moojeni venoms, followed by Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis for each sex. B. moojeni venom reduced all phenotypic measurements, while B. jararacussu reduced oviposition. Both venoms altered global gene expression, including lncRNAs. Females showed two lncRNA hub genes in two venom-associated co-expression modules, while males showed 61 lncRNA hub genes in nine venom-associated modules. RT-qPCR validated six out of seven selected hub lncRNAs in male worms. These results reveal the involvement of lncRNAs in S. mansoni gene expression modulation induced by Bothrops venoms and point to lncRNAs that should be prioritized in future functional studies, such as SmLINC121220-IBu, SmLINC152105-IBu and SmLNCA123831-IBu. Full article

Snake venoms are rich sources of molecules with pharmacological potential, with approximately 90% of their composition consisting of proteins and peptides responsible for their biological activities. These proteins are classified as enzymatic or non-enzymatic. Enzymatic proteins function as catalysts in regulatory chemical reactions, whereas non-enzymatic proteins, despite lacking catalytic activity, play essential roles in physiological processes. Lectins are non-enzymatic proteins of non-immune origin characterized by carbohydrate- and glycoprotein-binding domains, enabling their ability to agglutinate erythrocytes. C-type lectins and C-type lectin-like proteins are commonly found in snake venoms and are associated with hemostatic disturbances, particularly bleeding and coagulation disorders. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of studies published over the past decade on lectins isolated from snake venom, addressing their definitions, classifications, structural characteristics, and mechanisms of action, as well as their relevance in biotechnological applications. Although progress has been made in elucidating their pharmacological properties, most studies have focused on plant lectins. In contrast, research on snake venom lectins remains limited, particularly regarding their heterologous activities. This gap, especially compared to other venom-derived molecules, highlights the need to further expand research on this class of proteins. Full article

Skin aging is a complex biological process characterized by progressive alterations in the dermal microenvironment, including extracellular matrix (ECM) disorganization, fibroblast dysfunction, and changes in the biomechanical properties of the tissue. In this context, biomaterials used in regenerative aesthetic medicine have been widely employed with the aim of stimulating dermal remodeling processes. This review aimed to analyze the main biomaterials currently used in clinical practice, including calcium hydroxyapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, polycaprolactone, polynucleotides, polydeoxyribonucleotide, and nano-hydroxyapatite, focusing on their biological mechanisms and interactions with the cutaneous microenvironment. The available literature suggests that the effects of these materials are not limited to collagen induction, but also involve modulation of fibroblast activity, extracellular matrix reorganization, and progressive tissue remodeling processes. However, relevant limitations remain in the scientific literature, including methodological heterogeneity among studies and the scarcity of evidence directly clarifying the cellular mechanisms involved. Therefore, advances in this field depend on the integration of experimental research, histological analysis, and well-controlled clinical investigation, as well as a deeper understanding of cellular biology and extracellular matrix dynamics. Full article

Background: Proximal lower-extremity muscle strengthening is an important conservative intervention for patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), as these muscle groups play critical roles in femoral stabilization and knee valgus control. However, evidence remains limited regarding the effectiveness of muscle strengthening in improving lower-extremity axial alignment through modulation of femoral neck anteversion, femoral internal rotation, and tibial external rotation. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine whether a strengthening protocol targeting the quadriceps and hip external rotator and hip abductor muscles could improve knee alignment and reduce bone torsion in young adults with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Methods: This prospective interventional cohort study implemented a muscle strengthening protocol in ten university students with PFPS. Outcomes included femoral neck anteversion angle (FNA), tibial tubercle–trochlear groove distance (TT–TG), tibial external torsion angle (TET), and the knee Q-angle, assessed via 3D reconstruction of computed tomography (3D-CT) images. Pre- and post-intervention data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test for normality and repeated-measures ANOVA (p < 0.05; 95% confidence interval). Results: Muscle strengthening improved lower-limb axial alignment, with reductions observed across all measures post-intervention. Mean changes were 0.68 ± 1.26° for FNA (p = 0.0626); 1.51 ± 0.97 mm for TT–TG (p = 0.0001); 1.38 ± 3.36° for TET (p = 0.2231); and 1.14 ± 1.52° for the Q-angle. Statistically significant improvements were observed for TT–TG and the Q-angle. Conclusions: Proximal muscle strengthening improved knee valgus and axial lower-limb alignment, as evidenced by significant reductions in Q angle and TT–TG distance. Reductions in femoral neck anteversion (FNA) and tibial external torsion angle (TET) were observed. However, these differences were not statistically significant. These findings support muscle strengthening as a noninvasive strategy for improving lower-limb alignment in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Full article

China plays a multifaceted and pivotal role in the global snake trade network, with its trade dynamics heavily influenced by domestic market demand and international regulatory policies. Based on official CITES trade data from 1975 to 2023, this study systematically analyzes the scale, species composition, source dynamics, and potential risks of China’s legal snake trade by using Whole Organism Equivalents (WOEs) and trade measures adjusted for reporting effort. The results show that the cumulative trade volume exceeded 11.7 million WOEs and that China’s role underwent a major transformation from a “supply center” in the early 1990s to a “consumption hub” by 2012. Export patterns were dominated by colubrid snakes (81.5% of total exports), with the oriental ratsnake (Ptyas mucosa) alone accounting for 56.8%; this reflects a distinctive trade landscape shaped by the domestic culture of “medicine and food homology.” Although the proportion of captive-bred individuals has increased since 2010, a dual-supply system comprising both wild-sourced and captive-bred individuals persists. Furthermore, we identified several misreported species, exemplified by the non-native common cobra Naja naja being recorded as wild-sourced exports from China. Notably, the live venomous snake trade exhibits an extreme geographic concentration, with over 93% of exports directed to Hong Kong, thereby posing significant biosecurity and public health risks. In conclusion, future governance should move beyond simple trade bans by utilizing molecular tools to correct identification biases and by implementing regulatory frameworks modeled on the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) system. This approach will address biosecurity risks within the trade chain and help achieve a scientifically informed balance between ecological conservation and livelihood security. Full article

The study evaluated bone repair in tibial defects of Wistar rats treated with 45S5 bioactive glass, either alone or combined with lyophilized heterologous fibrin biopolymer (HFB) and/or photobiomodulation therapy (PBM). Thirty-five animals were randomly assigned to five groups: control (CG), Bioactive glass (BG), Bioactive glass + HFB (BFG), Bioactive glass + PBM (BPG), and Bioactive glass + HFB + PBM (BFPG). After 42 days, the samples were analyzed by micro-computed tomography, histology (Hematoxylin–Eosin, Masson’s Trichrome, and Picrosirius Red), and histomorphometry. Histological and micro-CT findings demonstrated improved defect closure and better matrix organization in the BG and BFG groups. Histomorphometric analysis revealed significant differences among the groups (ANOVA, p < 0.0001), with the BG group showing the highest percentage of new bone formation (40.35 ± 4.14%), significantly higher than the BPG and BFPG groups. The addition of HFB did not impair bone repair and yielded intermediate results, whereas PBM did not demonstrate a positive effect on bone regeneration at the 42-day time point under the parameters used in this study. It can be concluded that bioactive glass, especially when used alone or in combination with heterologous fibrin biopolymer, promoted superior bone regeneration, while its association with photobiomodulation did not demonstrate additional benefit at 42 days. Full article

Bee venom variability is driven by environmental and nutritional factors, yet their integrated effects remain poorly understood. This study provides a novel, comprehensive assessment combining dietary treatments with real-time environmental monitoring to evaluate their joint influence on the physico-chemical properties, total amino acid, mineral composition, and heavy metal content of Apis mellifera venom. A total of 32 samples collected between April and July 2025 were analyzed under both artificial feeding and natural foraging conditions. Moisture ranged from 11.2% to 19.2%, while pH remained stable (5.6–6.25). Total amino acids varied between 344.0 and 409.5 mg/g, with maximum values during the acacia period (>400 mg/g). Potassium was the dominant macroelement (3.19–11.37 mg/g), followed by Ca (0.80–3.68 mg/g) and P (0.31–1.84 mg/g). Microelements such as Fe (0.11–0.98 mg/g) and Mn (1.19–8.85 µg/g) showed pronounced seasonal variability. Lead reached up to 36.18 µg/g during natural foraging, while Cd (0.30–3.97 µg/g) was mainly associated with artificial feeding. By integrating nutritional and microclimatic determinants, this study demonstrates that floral origin and seasonal dynamics are the primary drivers of venom quality, while supplementation exerts secondary effects, and highlights the potential of bee venom as a sensitive bioindicator of environmental exposure. Full article

Phytopathogenic bacteria and fungi significantly reduce fruit and vegetable yields, resulting in substantial economic losses. Conventional management relies on synthetic agrochemicals; however, their intensive use poses risks to human health, environmental integrity, and biodiversity. Snake venoms have evolved under selective pressure, developing specialized components with potent antimicrobial properties as part of a defense mechanism against prey-borne microorganisms. This study evaluated the inhibitory potential of Micrurus venoms against pathogens of agricultural interest and developed bioactive gelatin-based films incorporated with purified L-amino acid oxidases (LAAOs) as a novel biocontrol strategy. Venoms from M. ancoralis, M. mipartitus, and M. dumerilii exhibited significant growth inhibition against Xanthomonas and Fusarium strains. The primary active component was identified as LAAO through biological activity and mass spectrometry. Biofilms were formulated by incorporating M. ancoralis venom and its purified LAAO into a gelatin matrix. Physicochemical and microbiological characterization, alongside in situ assays on strawberries, demonstrated that the functionalized biofilms retained potent antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, LAAO incorporation did not significantly alter the physicochemical properties of the fruit but effectively extended shelf life by reducing weight loss and maintaining sensory appearance. These findings highlight the biotechnological potential of elapid venom components in the development of alternatives for phytopathogen control and active food packaging. Full article

Peptide therapeutics have emerged as a versatile class of biomolecules bridging the gap between small-molecule drugs and large biologics. Advantages of such molecules include high target specificity, potent bioactivity and reduced off-target toxicity. Despite these, broader clinical translation remains constrained by inherent limitations like poor metabolic stability, rapid renal clearance, limited membrane permeability and scalable synthesis. This review aims to systematically integrate advances in peptide science across natural discovery, synthetic methodologies, structural engineering, and translational delivery systems, while identifying critical research gaps hindering clinical adoption. We highlight diverse natural sources of bioactive peptides, including plant- (lunasin), animal- (Val-Pro-Pro (VPP) and Ile-Pro-Pro (IPP)), microbial- (nisin and cyclosporine), marine- (dolastatins) and venom-derived (chlorotoxin and ω-conotoxin MVIIA (ziconotide)) agents. Advances in solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS), green chemistry, and catalytic strategies are discussed alongside emerging in silico approaches, including artificial intelligence-driven sequence design and molecular modeling. Structural modifications such as cyclization, hydrocarbon stapling, PEGylation, and lipidation are critically evaluated for their role in enhancing pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. Furthermore, nanoformulation strategies, including self-assembling peptides and cell-penetrating systems, are examined for their potential to overcome biological barriers. Importantly, this review identifies key unresolved challenges, including the lack of predictive models for peptide delivery systems, safety concerns associated with long-term modifications, and limited in vivo validation of naturally derived peptides. Addressing these gaps through integrated computational and experimental approaches will be essential for advancing next-generation peptide therapeutics. Collectively, this work provides a comprehensive framework for the rational design and translation of peptide-based precision medicines. Full article

Apitherapy is a complementary therapeutic approach based on the use of bee-derived products, particularly bee venom (BV), also known as apitoxin. Bee venom is a complex mixture of biologically active compounds, including peptides, enzymes, and biogenic amines, that exhibit diverse pharmacological activities. Major bioactive constituents such as melittin, apamin, adolapin, and phospholipase A2 have attracted increasing scientific interest due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic, and immunomodulatory properties. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the biological effects and therapeutic potential of bee venom in the management of chronic diseases, particularly diabetes, cancer, and neurological disorders. Evidence from experimental and clinical studies suggests that BV and its components can modulate multiple molecular pathways associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and immune responses. These mechanisms contribute to potential benefits in glycemic control, tumor suppression, neuroprotection, and pain management. Additionally, bee venom has been investigated for its capacity to influence signaling pathways involved in cellular proliferation and survival, highlighting its potential as a complementary strategy in the treatment of complex diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Despite these promising therapeutic effects, the clinical use of BV remains limited due to safety concerns, particularly the risk of allergic reactions, systemic toxicity, and anaphylaxis. Recent advances in drug delivery systems and nanotechnology may help improve the safety and efficacy of BV-based therapies by enabling targeted delivery and controlled dosing. Overall, bee venom represents a promising source of bioactive compounds with potential applications in translational and integrative medicine; however, further well-designed clinical trials and mechanistic studies are necessary to establish its safety, efficacy, and long-term therapeutic value. Full article