Indian researchers decode venomous sting of black scorpion
The study offers new insights into its toxic effects.
Scorpion envenomation is a significant health concern worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, due to its associated morbidity and mortality.
Despite its prevalence, limited research has been conducted on the biochemical properties and toxicological mechanisms of scorpion venom, leading to gaps in understanding and treatment.
In their study the scientists from the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati— an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) — undertook the first comprehensive profiling of the venom of the slither black scorpion.
Led by Prof. Ashis K Mukherjee, Director of IASST, and research scholar Susmita Nath, the study identified 25 distinct toxins across eight protein families in the venom. Through spectrometry and biochemical analyses, the researchers characterised these components and evaluated their pharmacological impact in Swiss albino mice.
The venom was observed to induce systemic toxicity, evident from elevated liver enzymes, organ damage and a marked proinflammatory immune response. These findings indicate that the venom triggers significant physiological distress, potentially resulting in shock or severe allergic reactions.
The study has been published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.
'This study addresses a critical gap in venom research on lesser-known scorpion species and lays a foundation for future investigations aimed at improving clinical management of scorpion envenomation,' said the researchers. UNI AJ SSP
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