Exploring the Therapeutic Promise of Melittin: Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Cancer Applications of Bee Venom

Abstract

Bee venom, a complex mixture of bioactive components, has garnered attention for its therapeutic properties, with melittin identified as its primary active component. This review highlights the potential of melittin in treating inflammation and cancer, two major health challenges. Inflammatory diseases, characterized by dysregulated immune responses, benefit from melittin's anti-inflammatory effects, including the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and activation of anti-inflammatory signaling pathways. Both preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated melittin's ability to reduce inflammation across various disease models. In oncology, melittin has shown promising anti-cancer effects by inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. Recent evidence suggests melittin's efficacy against breast cancer and its potential application in other malignancies, such as prostate, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers. Additionally, melittin enhances the effectiveness of conventional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Despite its therapeutic promise, the potential toxicity and adverse effects of melittin necessitate careful investigation. Current research focuses on strategies to mitigate toxicity and improve its safety profile. This review underscores the significant progress in understanding melittin's mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential, emphasizing the need for further studies to develop safe and effective melittin-based treatments for inflammatory and cancerous diseases.