Antitumor activity of scorpion venom-derived peptides: A meta-analysis of preclinical studies

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  Antitumor activity of scorpion venom-derived peptides: A meta-analysis of preclinical studies Abstract Despite advances in cancer therapeutics, there are still challenges in improving drug toxicity and selectivity. Peptides from various venous species have recently garnered attention for their biopharmaceutical potential, particularly in cancer. The present study aimed to conduct a meta-analysis of the antitumor activity of scorpion venom-derived peptides (SVDPs) previously reported in preclinical models. The bibliographic research included original and review articles written in English published from 2015 to 2026. Studies within the scope were retrieved from the EBSCO Discovery Service, PubMed, and WIPO databases. A total of 27 articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in this research, and the collected data were synthesized through a meta-analysis. In the included in vitro and in vivo studies, the effect of SVDPs on breast/mammary gland, cervical,...

THE TRADE OF LIVE TARANTULAS AND SCORPIONS IN A SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM IN THE PHILIPPINES

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THE TRADE OF LIVE TARANTULAS AND SCORPIONS IN A SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM IN THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract 
Tarantulas and scorpions are diverse groups of arachnids. The international trade of live arachnids as pets is widespread, with undescribed or newly described species being particularly sought-after by enthusiasts due to their novelty and perceived rarity. Previous studies on wildlife trade in the Philippines have focused on vertebrates (e.g. reptiles, birds, mammals). This study was conducted to provide baseline data on trade dynamics of arachnids. We surveyed five Facebook groups specializing in the trade of live arachnids in 2020 and 2022 which documented more than 16,000 individuals representing 135 and 25 species of tarantulas and scorpions, respectively. Price per individual tarantula ranged from PHP 20 (USD 0.38) for a commonly traded species to PHP2 0,000 (USD382) for an undescribed species. Legality in sourcing and trade is a concern. Non-native arachnids are smuggled regularly by post into the country, while native species are poached and illegally shipped domestically and internationally to supply the pet trade. The Philippine wildlife authorities and Facebook are urged to collaboratively address the ongoing illegal live arachnid trade.

Raymundo, J.J.G., Chng, S.C.L. & Sy, E.Y. 2024. The trade of live tarantulasand scorpions in a social media platform in the Philippines. Journal of Nature Studies. 23(2), 1-21.
(PDF) THE TRADE OF LIVE TARANTULAS AND SCORPIONS IN A SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM IN THE PHILIPPINES. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387555836_THE_TRADE_OF_LIVE_TARANTULAS_AND_SCORPIONS_IN_A_SOCIAL_MEDIA_PLATFORM_IN_THE_PHILIPPINES [accessed Jan 03 2025].