Honeybee Venom Found to Kill Aggressive Breast Cancer Cells in Lab Tests

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have found that honeybee venom—specifically a compound called melittin—can effectively kill aggressive breast cancer cells in laboratory tests. The 2020 study, led by Dr. Ciara Duffy in Australia, revealed that melittin is particularly potent against two of the most difficult-to-treat breast cancer types: triple-negative and HER2-enriched cancers.

Melittin works by creating holes in the membranes of cancer cells, disrupting their internal communication and stopping them from growing and dividing. Remarkably, the venom had minimal impact on healthy cells, raising hopes that it could be developed into a highly targeted cancer therapy.

Although more research and human trials are required before melittin can be used as a clinical treatment, the findings open new doors in cancer research. This discovery highlights the incredible potential of natural compounds in tackling some of the most challenging diseases. One of nature’s smallest creatures—the honeybee—may one day help fight one of the world’s biggest health threats.