Scorpion Venom Peptides: Chemistry, Structural Diversity, and Therapeutic Applications

Abstract: Recent advancements in proteomics, genomics, and transcriptomics have underscored the significance of natural products in drug discovery, particularly animal-derived toxins. While only a limited number of biologically relevant toxins have been extracted from animals that produce these toxins, there remains significant potential to explore and develop additional therapeutics from these species. Scorpion venom contains a rich source of biologically active molecules that possess great medical potential. This review examines its chemical composition and categorizes the toxins into groups, such as sodium channel toxins [NaTx], potassium channel toxins [KTx], calcium channel toxins [CaTx], chloride channel toxins [ClTx], and TRP channel toxins [TRPTx] and antimicrobial peptides, each with distinct pharmacological effects. We also discuss the structural classification of these peptides, exploring their biochemistry and characterization in detail. Additionally, the review highlights potential therapeutic applications of peptides in neurological and non-neurological treatments. While the use of scorpion venom for medical purposes is promising, challenges such as toxicity and non-selectivity toward healthy cells remain significant obstacles. Continued research is essential to fully harness its therapeutic potential and address these issues for the development of innovative treatments.