Molecules (Jul 2022)

Bioactive Peptides and Proteins from Centipede Venoms

  • Yalan Han,
  • Peter Muiruri Kamau,
  • Ren Lai,
  • Lei Luo

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27144423
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 27, no. 14
p. 4423

Abstract

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Venoms are a complex cocktail of biologically active molecules, including peptides, proteins, polyamide, and enzymes widely produced by venomous organisms. Through long-term evolution, venomous animals have evolved highly specific and diversified peptides and proteins targeting key physiological elements, including the nervous, blood, and muscular systems. Centipedes are typical venomous arthropods that rely on their toxins primarily for predation and defense. Although centipede bites are frequently reported, the composition and effect of centipede venoms are far from known. With the development of molecular biology and structural biology, the research on centipede venoms, especially peptides and proteins, has been deepened. Therefore, we summarize partial progress on the exploration of the bioactive peptides and proteins in centipede venoms and their potential value in pharmacological research and new drug development.

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