Snake Venom and Antivenom Pharmacology

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  SNAKE VENOM & ANTIVENOM Chemistry, Composition, Mechanisms and Pharmacology Abstract This integrated teaching session for Phase III MBBS students focused on the pharmacology and toxicology of snake venom and the principles of antivenom therapy. The lecture covered the chemistry, composition, mechanisms of action, and pharmacological effects of snake venoms and antivenoms. Rational use of antivenoms, indications, administration protocols, adverse reactions, and supportive management strategies were discussed. The session also highlighted the translational importance of venom-derived compounds in modern drug development. Recent advances in antivenom research, including recombinant human monoclonal antibodies, toxin-specific inhibitors, synthetic antibody technologies, and next-generation broad-spectrum antivenoms, were reviewed. Current discoveries and emerging approaches aimed at improving efficacy, safety, affordability, and accessibility of antivenom therapy were also explor...

Scorpion venom as a molecular treasure: emerging bioactive compounds and translational therapeutic insights

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Scorpion venom as a molecular treasure: emerging bioactive compounds and translational therapeutic insights

Abstract

Scorpion venom contains a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including peptides, proteins, enzymes, and alkaloids, which hold significant medicinal potential despite their toxicity due to interactions with voltage-gated sodium, potassium, and calcium channels affecting the autonomic nervous system. A comprehensive study analyzing literature from esteemed scientific databases (2000–2025) evaluates the structural and functional properties of these venom components. Enzymes and proteins exhibit anticancer properties through apoptosis induction, angiogenesis inhibition, and immune modulation, while ion channel modulators show promise in treating neurological disorders, pain, and cardiac arrhythmias. Antimicrobial peptides demonstrate high efficacy against multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. Certain alkaloids also offer antioxidant and immunoregulatory benefits. A pioneering study on advanced nano-systems derived from scorpion venom has highlighted their potential to enhance drug delivery and therapeutic efficacy. Translational promise is further supported by advancements in recombinant expression, structure–activity relationship investigations, and innovative delivery strategies, despite challenges such as toxicity and stability. Scorpion venom thus represents a rich source of compounds with significant medicinal and biological applications.

Dahiya, R., Goyal, K., Sharma, K. et al. Scorpion venom as a molecular treasure: emerging bioactive compounds and translational therapeutic insights. Arch Toxicol (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00204-025-04251-5