Can Scorpion Venom Peptides Be Safely Used in Cardiovascular Therapy: A Systematic Review

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  Can Scorpion Venom Peptides Be Safely Used in Cardiovascular Therapy: A Systematic Review Abstract Scorpion venom contains numerous bioactive peptides with potent cardiovascular effects, including bradykinin-potentiating peptides (BPPs), ion channel modulators, and cardioprotective molecules. These peptides show promise for conditions such as hypertension, cardiac injury, and arrhythmias. However, concerns regarding toxicity, immunogenicity, and off-target actions have limited their clinical development. This systematic review evaluates the therapeutic potential and safety of scorpion venom peptides for cardiovascular applications. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Semantic Scholar identified 1,141 articles. Screening of 463 abstracts and full-text review of 446 eligible studies resulted in 17 publications meeting the inclusion criteria. Extracted data included mechanisms, efficacy, toxicity, and translational challenges. BPPs consistently demonstrated AC...

Scorpions (Arachnida Scorpiones) of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories: current knowledge and future directions

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Scorpions (Arachnida Scorpiones) of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories: current knowledge and future directions

Abstract
Current knowledge on the diversity, distribution, ecology and medical importance of the scorpions from the United Kingdom Overseas Territories (UKOTs) is synthesised and discussed. Scorpions are absent from British Antarctic and British Indian Ocean territories, the Falkland Islands, the Pitcairn Islands, and South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. No scorpions are native to Bermuda, but a single stowaway buthid has previously been detected and successfully intercepted. The remaining territories all contain endemic or long-term established introduced species, which is discussed in detail for each territory. Maps of the distribution of endemic and non-endemic taxa are presented, alongside photographs of specimens in life. Future research directions, particularly the need for additional research in biodiversity hotspots of the Caribbean, are discussed.

Many thanks to Danni Sherwood for forwarding this manuscript. Via ResearchGate

Sherwood, Danniella & De Armas, Luis & Sharp, Adam & Fowler, Liza. (2024). Scorpions (Arachnida Scorpiones) of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories: current knowledge and future directions. BIODIVERSITY JOURNAL. 15. 41-52. 10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.1.41.52.