Scorpion venom is extremely expensive and dangerous, but it also has fascinating medical applications, especially in the regulation of biological mechanisms due to its structural and functional specificity. In this regard, the current review article aims to address medical issues, discuss prospects, and provide recommendations for future directions, including drug development and clinical applications of scorpion venom. Scorpion venom is also a valuable source for pharmacological and clinical applications, including cytotoxic, antiproliferative, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, diabetic control, wound healing and pain relief. In addition, it can help develop new medicines that control the immune system and prevent autoimmune diseases. The clinical applications show the development of cancer treatments and other antitumor effects. Approximately 350 peptides derived from the most studied scorpion species consist of a mixture rich in neurotoxins, enzymes, nucleotides, water and a combination of salts, amino acids, biogenic amines, mucopolysaccharides and other proteins, all of which contribute to their biological activity. The pharmacological properties suppress tumor cell migration, trigger apoptosis and modulate ion channels. The peptides show cytotoxicity and antiviral activity and reflect significant clinical applicability. This review aims to summarize previous findings and seek to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of research, patterns and trends in these fields, and the importance of scorpions in medicine.
Summer, M., Bibi, R. & Ali, S. Pharmacological potential of scorpion venom: From molecular targets, peptide chemistry to clinical translation. Reef. Brass. Pharmacogno. 3635 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s43450-026-00739-y
