Characterization of Hottentotta judaicus Scorpion Venom: Toxic Effects and Neurobehavioral Modulation in Insect Models

Scorpion venom is a rich source of diverse bioactive molecules with medicinal importance. While the venoms of many Buthidae scorpions have been extensively studied for their toxicity and therapeutic potential, <i>Hottentotta judaicus</i> scorpion venom (HjSV) remains poorly explored. In this study, using LC-ESI-MS, we show that HjSV has a complex composition. We find that HjSV has no significant cytotoxic effects on three human cancer cell lines, even at concentrations of up to 1000 µg/mL. However, it exerts a dose-dependent insecticidal effect against <i>Drosophila melanogaster</i>, a well-established genetic model organism, and two medically relevant mosquito species, <i>Aedes albopictus</i> and <i>Culex pipiens</i>. These findings highlight the venom's selective activity and reveal a species-dependent susceptibility in insects, with mosquitoes being more sensitive than <i>Drosophila</i>. Furthermore, we show that at sub-lethal doses, HjSV alters <i>D. melanogaster</i> behavioral patterns, significantly reducing locomotor activity and increasing sleep duration. Altogether, our results provide new insights into the dual role of HjSV as both an insecticidal agent and behavioral modulator, shedding light on its ecological function in prey subduing and its potential application in pest control strategies.