Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an important global health concern, and often challenges to effectively treat it in traditional ways and burden side effects. Scorpion Venoms offers a unique pathway for exploration given its ability to destroy cell cycle, inhibit growth and cause apoptosis. This study explores the impact of Mesobutus eupeus (M. Eupeus) scorpion venom on the growth and progression of colorectal cancer at the molecular level. Total protein concentration in the venom (607.5 µg/mL) also highlighted the rich composition and potential of therapeutic applications. This study reveals that M. Eupeus The venom effectively reduced the proliferation of DLD-1 and HT-29 colorectal cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner using IC50 Values of 4.32 and 7.61 µg/mL, respectively. The venom also prevents cell migration, reduces colony formation, and causes apoptosis of cancer cells. The venom also induced early and late apoptosis in two cancer cell lines. Human colorectal cancer and apoptotic pathways were clarified at the molecular level using a pathway panel, revealing an increase in 16 genes involved in colorectal cancer and a decrease in 23. In the HT-29 cell line, 57 genes were increased, one was reduced after venom treatment. Furthermore, mRNA expression for 19 genes involved in the apoptotic pathway was increased, and 22 decreased in DLD-1 cells. This study highlights the possibility of M. Eupeus Toxins as a natural therapeutic approach in the exploration of cancer treatment.
Canak, Hn, Bas, K., Yağmur, Ea et al. Mesobutus eupeus The venom regulates colorectal cancer signaling pathways and induces apoptosis. Med Oncol 42163 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/S12032-025-02689-2
