Dr. Sushma Muchukota,
Pavithra S,
Dr. Shobha Rani R. Hiremath,
- Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Aditya Bangalore Institute of Pharmacy Education & Research (ABIPER), Bangalore, India
- PharmD (PB) intern, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Aditya Bangalore Institute of Pharmacy Education & Research (ABIPER), Bangalore, India
- Director and Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Aditya Bangalore Institute of Pharmacy Education & Research (ABIPER), Bangalore, India
Abstract
Honeybee venom (HBV) has harvested significant attention as a promising natural compound with therapeutic potential in cancer treatment. This review investigates deeply into the current scientific understanding of honeybee venom, focusing on its anticancer mechanisms, molecular interactions, and potential clinical applications. Honeybee venom comprises various bioactive components, including melittin, apamin, phospholipase A2, and other peptides, which exhibit a wide range of biological activities. Recent research has demonstrated its ability to induce apoptosis, inhibit angiogenesis, suppress metastasis, and modulate the immune response, making it a compelling candidate for innovative oncological interventions.
By synthesizing the latest advancements, we explore how these components interact specifically with cancer cell membranes and intracellular targets, such as signalling pathways and mitochondrial functions. Furthermore, we discuss the selectivity of honey bee venom for cancer cells over normal cells, its potential synergistic effects with existing chemotherapeutics, and emerging nanotechnology-based delivery systems designed to enhance its efficacy and reduce systemic toxicity. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide insights into honey bee venom’s transformative role in cancer therapy, addressing both its therapeutic potential and the challenges associated with its clinical translation.
Keywords: Honey bee venom (HBV), anticancer mechanisms, melittin, apoptosis, angiogenesis inhibition, metastasis suppression, immune modulation
[This article belongs to Research and Reviews: A Journal of Toxicology ]
Dr. Sushma Muchukota, Pavithra S, Dr. Shobha Rani R. Hiremath. Harnessing Honeybee Venom For Cancer Treatment: A Natural Remedy In Oncology. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Toxicology. 2025; 15(01):10-14.
Dr. Sushma Muchukota, Pavithra S, Dr. Shobha Rani R. Hiremath. Harnessing Honeybee Venom For Cancer Treatment: A Natural Remedy In Oncology. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Toxicology. 2025; 15(01):10-14. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjot/article=2025/view=201123
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Research and Reviews: A Journal of Toxicology
Volume | 15 |
Issue | 01 |
Received | 09/12/2024 |
Accepted | 10/01/2025 |
Published | 19/02/2025 |
Publication Time | 72 Days |