Arthropod venoms and cancer

Many active principles produced by animals, plants and microorganisms have been employed in the development of new drugs to treat diseases such as cancer. Among the animals that produce pharmacologically active molecules capable of interfering in human cellular physiology, the highlights are venomous arthropods, such as scorpions, bees, wasps, spiders, ants and caterpillars. The substances found in the venom of these animals present great potential as anti-tumor agents. In this review, we present the main results of years of research involving the active compounds of arthropods venoms that have anticancer activity. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.