Structure, function and mechanistic aspects of scorpion venom peptides - A boon for the development of novel therapeutics

Abstract

Venom of scorpions is very expensive and lethal, yet with innumerable and exciting potential as a source for the development of biotherapeutics. One of the chief components of scorpion venom is the ‘peptides’ which have shown diverse array of biological activities, promising site specificity and are also involved in the regulation of biological mechanisms. These peptides have especially gained more attention in the development of cardiovascular and other immune disorders due to the structural and functional specificity. This review is the compilation of the recent developments of therapeutic applications of scorpion peptides including the latest inventions (till 2020). In most of the cases, primary sequence of the peptides as well as the mechanism of action have been given and hence finds suitable in search of lead molecules for further development. Thus, the relevant findings presented here would serve as a valuable source either for improving the pharmacological profile or for new drugs development.

Keywords

• Scorpion venom
• Peptides
• Therapeutics
• Medicinal chemistry