All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier

Scorpions venom

(449 products available)

About scorpions venom

Types of scorpion venom

Scorpion venoms vary based on the scorpion species. They consist of small protein-like molecules called peptide. Scorpion venom is used for various medical purposes like treating cancer, malaria, and other diseases.

Therapeutic scorpion venom

Scorpion venom has been widely researched and used in medicine. It contains components that can help treat different diseases. For example, the yellow scorpion's venom has peptides that target tumor cells. This makes it useful in cancer therapies.

Antivenom scorpion venom

Antivenom is made from animals like horses or sheep exposed to scorpion venom. Antibodies in their serum are extracted and purified. This is used to treat people with scorpion stings. It helps neutralize the venom's toxicity. People with scorpion stings exhibit symptoms like swelling at the sting site, pain, and fever. Severe cases experience difficulty breathing, high blood pressure, and an irregular heartbeat. Antivenom is administered based on the severity of the symptoms exhibited. It is administered through an intravenous line or a muscle injection.

Research scorpion venom

Venoms from certain scorpions are potent and valuable for scientific research. For instance, the Leiurus quinquestriatus, commonly known as the deathstalker scorpion, is highly prized. Scientists isolate its components to develop new drugs. Research focuses on using its venom to create treatments that specifically target cancerous cells. One example is a compound called chlorotoxin, which helps inhibit tumor growth. Another scorpion known as Androctonus australis produces venom rich in neurotoxins. It is used to study brain and nerve cell interactions for potential neurological disorder therapies.

Pharmaceutical scorpion venom

The pharmaceutical industry uses venom components in drug development. Venom peptides are being engineered into synthetic drugs. This gives them more control over dosage and targeting. Research is creating peptide drugs with scorpion venom components to treat pain. These drugs aim to block specific pain pathways without the side effects of current opioid medications.

Specifications and maintenance of scorpion venom

The venom extraction and storage medium varies depending on the intended use. It can be stored in two main forms: aqueous solution or freeze-dried powder. Each form has its own specifications and maintenance requirements.

Aqueous solution

The most common way to extract scorpion venom is by harvesting it and dissolving it in water. The scorpion is stimulated to produce venom, which is collected. Scorpion venom collectors usually use a mild electric current. The current causes the scorpion to release the venom into a container.

The aqueous solution of scorpion venom often has a concentration of approximately 0.1 to 1 milligram per milliliter. This concentration can vary depending on the scorpion species and the extraction method. It is typically stored in vials at temperatures of -20 to -80 °C.

Freeze-dried powder

This method involves extracting the venom and drying it in a freeze dryer to produce a powder. The powder is then stored in airtight containers. Freeze-dried scorpion venom is typically more stable than aqueous solutions. This is because it has a longer shelf life and is easier to transport and store. The drying process reduces the water content to less than 5 %. This preserves the peptide structure of the venom components.

Storage conditions

The scorpion venom storage conditions depend on the type of scorpion and the storage medium. The age and gender of the scorpion do not affect the venom composition or components. For aqueous scorpion venom, the vials should be stored in a freezer at either -20 °C or -80 °C. Freeze dryer should store freeze-dried scorpion venom. Maintain the temperature between -20 and -80 °C to ensure long-term stability.

Maintenance

When carrying out scorpion venom collection, ensure safety precautions are taken. Use protective gear like gloves and goggles. This protects one from accidental stings. Handle venom containers with care to avoid contamination. Use sterilized tools and equipment during the extraction process. Prevent any foreign material from entering the venom. Monitor the temperature of storage freezers regularly to maintain the required conditions. Keep backup storage in case of equipment failure.

One way to maintain scorpion venom freshness is by regularly checking the condition of the scorpions. Healthy, well-fed scorpions produce high-quality venom. Ensure the scorpions are in a suitable environment. This ensures they are well maintained in terms of size and condition. Monitor the humidity and temperature of the scorpion habitat. Regularly inspect the scorpions for signs of illness or injury and replace those that are unwell. Isolate sick scorpions from the healthy ones. This prevents potential disease or toxin contamination.

Benefits of scorpion venom

The global scorpion venom market is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 25.7% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is attributed to the wide medical significance of scorpion venom. It can be used to treat ailments ranging from cancer to multiple sclerosis. Scorpion venom contains high-value components that the pharmaceutical industry uses. Here are the benefits of this venom.

Treating cancer

Scorpion venom is particularly useful in targeting cancerous cells. One potent peptide is called chlorotoxin. Chlorotoxin selectively binds to tumors without harming healthy cells. This makes it a valuable tool in developing cancer treatments. The venom of the Leirus quinquestriatus or death stalker is quite valuable. Specifically, chlorotoxin can help treat glioblastoma, a dangerous brain cancer.

Pain relief

Scorpion venom has pain-relieving properties. It has components that can block ion channels involved in pain sensation. This makes it a potential alternative to opioid analgesics. Peptide-based drugs targeting pain pathways could help reduce chronic pain.

Treating Multiple Sclerosis

Scorpion venom is used to develop new treatments for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. MS is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spine. It happens when the immune system attacks nerve fibers, causing inflammation. This leads to symptoms like weakness, pain, and paralysis. Recently, there have been findings that support that scorpion venom can be used to treat this condition.

Antimicrobial properties

Scorpion venom has substances that have antimicrobial properties. They can kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microbes. Some components of scorpion venom can help treat antibiotic-resistant infections. They work by targeting bacterial cells without harming human cells.

Targeted drug delivery

Scorpion venom is used in poisoned drug delivery systems. For instance, chlorotoxin binds to MMPs on cancer cells. This enables drugs to be transported directly to tumor sites. It improves treatment efficiency while minimizing side effects.

How to choose scorpion venom

The quality and origin of scorpion venom are crucial for its effectiveness. People should be cautious when purchasing medical scorpion venom online. Here are some factors to consider when buying this venom.

Purity

Purity is a vital consideration when purchasing scorpion venom for medical purposes. Impurities can cause allergic reactions or lessen the venom's therapeutic activity. Scorpion venom is available in various purity levels, ranging from 70 to 98 %. High-purity scorpion venom typically costs a lot more than low-purity venom. For medical uses, antivenom, research, and pharmaceutical industries, scorpion venom of 90% and above purity is ideal.

Source and species

Scorpion species have distinct venom compositions and medical applications. For example, the deathstalker scorpion's venom is rich in chlorotoxins. This makes it valuable for cancer research. Conversely, the black emperor scorpion's venom is less medically relevant. The venom buyers purchase will depend on the needs of the clients. The source of the scorpion also affects the chemical composition and purity of the venom. For example, scorpions from arid areas produce venom with high peptide concentration. This makes it more useful for medical and pharmaceutical purposes.

Extraction and handling method

Scorpion venom extractors use various techniques to extract venom. These methods significantly impact the venom's chemical composition and potency. The most common extraction method is manual. It involves stimulating the scorpion to secrete venom. Other extraction methods are electrical stimulation of scorpions. Be wary of suppliers who do not state the extraction method they use.

Testing

Always settle for scorpion venom with third-party lab reports. Reliable suppliers always have them. They test their venom for purity, potency, and the presence of impurities. The report should also indicate that the venom is free from heavy metal contamination. The venom is commonly tested for medical purposes. It is important to ensure it is safe for human consumption.

Scorpion venom frequently asked questions

Can scorpion venom be used to treat viral infections?

Yes, some components of scorpion venom may have antiviral properties. However, more studies are needed to understand its effectiveness fully. A 2022 study found the venom from Centruriones and Parabuthus can inhibit viral replication.

Is extracting and using scorpion venom sustainable?

It can pose sustainability challenges. Especially when demand outpaces the ability to responsibly source or farm scorpions. However, there have been developments in synthetic alternatives. These aim to reduce the need for wild sourcing while maintaining therapeutic value.

Can scorpion venom treat bacterial infections?

The antimicrobial properties of scorpion venom are being researched. The venom is thought to contain peptides that can target antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms.

Is it safe to use scorpion venom in drug development?

It is not advisable to use scorpion venom without scientific support. Antivenoms can cause severe allergic reactions. Scorpion venom contains a high concentration of peptides. This makes them highly valuable for medicinal extraction.