Dangerous venom, useful molecules: Scientists explore scorpion peptides as a basis for new drugs

Peptides isolated from scorpion venom could form the basis of new treatments for inflammatory diseases, viral infections and certain liver disorders, according to the authors of a review published in the journal iLIVER.

Scorpion venom contains thousands of different molecules, including peptides capable of interacting with cell receptors and ion channels. Scientists are gradually moving from studying venom as a whole to identifying individual compounds with potentially beneficial properties.

Researchers are paying particular attention to peptides that affect the Kv1.3 ion channel, which plays a role in the function of immune cells. In experiments, some of these compounds reduced the activity of macrophages and T cells and suppressed inflammatory signaling pathways, resulting in lower production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Some peptides have also demonstrated analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in animal experiments. Others can target viral particles or prevent them from entering cells. In particular, the compounds Smp76, Ctry2459, BmKDfsin4 and Mucroporin-M1 have demonstrated activity against hepatitis B and C viruses in cellular or preclinical models.

Another area of research focuses on liver diseases. In experiments on mice, an extract of Buthus martensii Karsch venom containing the peptide BmKK2 reduced fatty liver changes, inflammation and fibrosis in animals fed a diet that induced steatohepatitis. The effect is thought to be related to its action on Kv1.3 and the subsequent suppression of inflammatory processes. However, the direct effect of this mechanism on liver tissue remains to be confirmed.

Research into scorpion peptides is still largely at the preclinical stage. These compounds have significant limitations: they can be rapidly broken down in the body, may be poorly absorbed when taken orally, can trigger unwanted immune reactions and may cause side effects. In addition, large-scale production remains complex and expensive.

Scientists hope that artificial intelligence, bioinformatics and nanotechnology will help accelerate the discovery of promising peptides, modify their properties and deliver them directly to target tissues.

One example of a scorpion-derived peptide already being investigated in clinical applications is chlorotoxin, which is being used as a component of experimental CAR-T therapy for recurrent glioblastoma.

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