What's Happening?
Researchers at the University of São Paulo's Ribeirão Preto School of Pharmaceutical Sciences have identified a molecule in the venom of the Amazonian scorpion species Brotheas amazonicus that may help
treat breast cancer. This discovery was made in collaboration with scientists from the National Institute for Amazonian Research and the Amazonas State University. The molecule appears to attack breast cancer cells similarly to a widely used chemotherapy medication. The research is part of a broader effort to clone and express bioactive molecules from venom, supported by FAPESP and connected to the Center for Translational Science and Development of Biopharmaceuticals. The findings were presented during FAPESP Week France.
Why It's Important?
Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among women, and new treatments are crucial for improving survival rates. The discovery of a molecule in scorpion venom that can effectively target cancer cells offers a promising avenue for developing new biopharmaceutical tools. This research not only highlights the potential of venom-derived compounds in cancer therapy but also underscores the importance of bioprospecting in uncovering novel treatments. The ongoing clinical trials and genetic expression approaches could lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, potentially offering more effective and less toxic alternatives to current therapies.
