Researchers at University of Sao Paulo in Brazil were working with a species of Amazon rainforest scorpion. They identified a molecule in its venom called BamazScplp1, that shows strong activity against human breast cancer cells. In tests the peptides effect on cancer cells was comparable to that of standard chemotherapy.
How this works is that BamazScplp1 exhibited cytotoxic effects which basically means it killed the cancer cells. The main mechanism was thought to be necrosis rather than just slowing or triggering classical apoptosis. Researchers use a technique called heterologous expression which produces the peptide in lab rather that extracting Vermon from real scorpions.
This is important because breast cancer remains a major cause of death among women worldwide. The fact that natural molecule from scorpion venom can match effectiveness of chemotherapy is a strong proof that natural toxins might be produced into cancer drugs for the future.
Sources:
Amazon scorpion venom shows stunning power against breast cancer. (2025, November 25). ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251117095658.htm
Koumoundouros, T. (2025, June 26). Amazonian scorpion venom can kill breast cancer cells, scientists say. ScienceAlert. https://www.sciencealert.com/amazonian-scorpion-venom-can-kill-breast-cancer-cells-scientists-say
I found this really interesting. I never would’ve expected scorpion venom to work as well as chemotherapy. The fact that the molecule actually kills breast cancer cells through necrosis and can be made safely in the lab makes it even more promising. Definitely feels like one of those discoveries that could lead to a completely new type of cancer treatment down the line.
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