Deadly cures: Unlocking anticancer potential of reptile, amphibian, and arthropod venoms through molecular innovation and nanotechnology

Abstract

Venoms from reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods represent a rich source of bioactive molecules with promising anticancer potential. Recent studies have highlighted the selective cytotoxicity of venom components including snake phospholipase A2 enzymes, scorpion peptides (chlorotoxin), and frog derived antimicrobial peptides against cancer cells. These molecules exert multifaceted effects, such as inducing apoptosis, inhibiting metastasis, and modulating the tumor microenvironment, thereby impairing tumor growth and progression. Advances in nanotechnology based delivery systems and peptide engineering have significantly improved the stability, bioavailability, and specificity of venom derived agents, enhancing their safety and therapeutic efficacy. Preclinical investigations demonstrate potent anticancer activity across multiple tumor models, and early clinical studies suggest translational potential. Current research continues to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying venom-mediated cytotoxicity, while formulation strategies and regulatory considerations are being optimized to facilitate clinical development. Future directions include the design of synthetic venom analogs, AI assisted drug discovery, and personalized medicine approaches, which collectively aim to harness the full therapeutic potential of venom peptides. By integrating natural bioactivity with modern biomedical technologies, venom derived compounds are emerging as a novel and promising avenue in the development of next-generation oncological therapeutics. This review provides a comprehensive overview of venom diversity, anticancer mechanisms, recent advances in formulation and delivery, and the challenges and opportunities for translating venom-based agents into clinical practice.