Scientists in Brazil have identified a compound in the venom of an Amazon scorpion that may help fight breast cancer, one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths in women.
The discovery comes from a study led by the University of São Paulo’s School of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Ribeirão Preto, where researchers examined the venom of Brotheas amazonicus, a species native to the Amazon region.
In early lab tests, a molecule from the venom demonstrated effects similar to those of paclitaxel, a widely used chemotherapy drug. The compound attacked breast cancer cells by triggering necrosis, a type of cell death. This early finding highlights the potential for Amazon scorpion venom in cancer research and drug development.
The results were presented at FAPESP Week France, held from June 10 to 12 in Toulouse, as part of a larger collaboration with the National Institute for Amazonian Research and the Amazonas State University. The project is headed by Professor Eliane Candiani Arantes, who has long studied natural toxins and their medical applications.
Discovery shows potential as breast cancer treatment
Researchers identified a molecule named BamazScplp1, found in Brotheas amazonicus, which showed significant anti-tumor activity. The peptide’s performance was compared to paclitaxel, showing a comparable impact on breast cancer cells.
The team now aims to reproduce this compound in the lab using a method called heterologous expression, which involves inserting genes into yeast to produce the desired protein.
This lab-based production employs Pichia pastoris, a yeast strain first identified in France in 1950. The same method is being utilized to recreate other venom-based proteins, including two scorpion neurotoxins that have demonstrated potential in suppressing immune system activity.
The research is part of a broader effort at the Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), based at São Paulo State University. The center focuses on exploring natural toxins for medical use and developing new biopharmaceuticals.
Venom-based medical innovations in advanced stages
One of CEVAP’s most advanced products is a fibrin sealant—a type of biological adhesive. It’s made from a protein found in snake venom and a substance rich in clotting factors taken from animals like buffalo and sheep.
When combined, the ingredients form a gel that mimics the body’s natural healing process. The sealant is currently in its final stage of clinical trials and has been tested for nerve repair, bone healing, and spinal injury recovery.
In another project, researchers cloned a rattlesnake venom protein known as colinein-1. They aim to combine it with a growth factor, CdtVEGF, also found in snake venom, to enhance the fibrin sealant’s effectiveness and make large-scale production possible.
These efforts underscore the growing interest in venom-based treatments and the promise they hold for future cancer therapies. The discovery of cancer-fighting properties in Amazon scorpion venom marks a key step in that direction.
Blue scorpion from Cuba has also shown promise against cancer
This is not the first time scorpion venom has drawn attention for its potential in cancer treatment. Previous studies have focused on the venom of the blue scorpion, Rhopalurus junceus, a species native to Cuba. Initially known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, the venom has also shown promise in slowing the growth of certain types of cancer.
A recent review of scientific literature analyzed 15 studies published over the past decade. Laboratory results showed that the venom could inhibit tumor growth and trigger cell death, with limited impact on healthy cells.
Components such as hyaluronidases and peptides like chlorotoxin, which bind to proteins found on aggressive tumor cells, and RjAa12f, which disrupts cell membrane function, were identified as key active ingredients.
Two clinical trials reported positive outcomes, with patients experiencing improved quality of life and pain relief, without serious side effects. While the findings are encouraging, researchers emphasize the need for more in-depth human studies before these treatments can be widely adopted.