Mechanistic Landscape and Targeted Nano-Delivery Strategies of Honeybee (Apis mellifera) Venom and Melittin in Oncology
Abstract: Honeybee (Apis mellifera) venom (BV) and its principal bioactive peptide, melittin, have emerged as potent natural therapeutic candidates in translational oncology. Melittin exerts robust cytotoxic effects across diverse cancer cell phenotypes through non-specific cell membrane disruption, pore formation, receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signal pathway suppression, and induction of mitochondrial apoptosis. However, systemic application of native melittin has historically been limited by non-selective hemolysis, acute off-target organ toxicity, and rapid degradation in circulation. To overcome these biopharmaceutical hurdles, advanced nanomedicine platforms-including lipid nanoparticles, polymeric conjugates, inorganic platforms, and stimuli-responsive smart carriers-have been developed to achieve targeted tumor delivery and controlled peptide release. This review synthesizes the molecular mechanisms of action of honeybee venom and melittin, details current progress in targeted nano-formulations, highlights synergistic multi-agent combination therapies, and addresses key clinical translation challenges.
Keywords: Honeybee Venom, Melittin, Translational Oncology, Targeted Nanomedicine, Membrane Permeabilization, Stimuli-Responsive Delivery
How to Cite?: Smitha G S, "Mechanistic Landscape and Targeted Nano-Delivery Strategies of Honeybee (Apis mellifera) Venom and Melittin in Oncology", Volume 15 Issue 10, October 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 414-415, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR261006144411, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR261006144411