Background Scorpion venoms are rich sources of bioactive molecules with high selectivity for various targets in cells, suggesting significant potential for modulating inflammatory diseases. Staphylococcus aureus infection remains a major clinical concern, particularly in patients with thermal injury.Aim This study investigates the therapeutic potential of crude Androctonus australis hector (Aah) venom in modulating the host immune response against S. aureus superinfection in a post-burn skin model.Experimental approach A mouse model of cutaneous infection was established by inducing a S. aureus superinfection on burned skin, followed by topical application of Aah venom. Clinical parameters, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, as well as histopathological and immunohistochemistry analyses were assessed at 24- and 72 hours post-infection.Key findings Data reveal that Aah venom enhances the innate anti-bacterial response by promoting macrophage (CD68+) and leucocyte infiltration. This is accompanied by an anti-bacterial ROS-dependent response, evidenced by H2O2 accumulation and NO release following iNOS activation, along with increased collagen production. Collectively, these mechanisms contribute to accelerated bacterial clearance, resulting in improved tissue healing and stabilized clinical parameters 72 hours post-treatment.Conclusion Our results suggest possible bivalent and biphasic effects of crude Aah venom in immunomodulating the antibacterial response and accelerating the healing process, warranting further studies to identify responsible components and mechanisms.
Background and aim Chronic inflammation plays a critical role in tumor progression through dysregulated cytokine networks and key signaling mediators such as p38-MAPK and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anticancer efficacy of the scorpion venom peptide Smp24 (SMP24) and its bimetallic nano-conjugates, SMP24-ZnOCuO, and SMP24-AgCuO, in a murine model of solid Ehrlich carcinoma (SEC).Experimental approach Solid tumors were induced in female Swiss albino mice via subcutaneous injection of 2.5 & times; 106 Ehrlich carcinoma cells. After tumor establishment (similar to 50 mm & sup3;), mice were randomly assigned to nine groups (n = 6/group), including controls, treatment groups, and a cisplatin reference group. Treatments were administered intraperitoneally every 48 hrs for 2 weeks. At the end of the experiment, blood, tumor tissues, and organs were collected for biochemical, cytokine, molecular, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses.Key findings SEC-bearing mice showed significant increases in body weight, organ indices, liver enzymes, and creatinine levels, alongside elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8) and reduced anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10). Histopathological alterations and increased expression of p38 and EGFR were also observed. Treatment with SMP24 and its nano-conjugates significantly restored cytokine balance, reduced organ toxicity markers, and improved tissue architecture. Notably, SMP24-AgCuO demonstrated superior efficacy, markedly suppressing IL-6 and IL-8, enhancing IL-4 and IL-10, and significantly downregulating p38 and EGFR expression compared to cisplatin.Conclusions SMP24-conjugated bimetallic nanocarriers, particularly SMP24-AgCuO, exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects through modulation of the EGFR/p38-MAPK signaling axis. These findings highlight their potential as a targeted and safer therapeutic strategy for managing tumor-associated inflammation and cancer progression.
