09/03/2025
Researchers at the Harry Perkins Institute found that Melittin, the main peptide in bee venom, completely destroyed aggressive breast cancer cell membranes within 60 minutes in laboratory models—while largely sparing healthy cells.
Within 20 minutes, Melittin also suppressed key cancer-growth signals like EGFR and HER2. In mice, combining Melittin with chemotherapy (docetaxel) enhanced tumor reduction.
Though these findings are promising for targeted cancer strategies, they remain at the preclinical stage. More research is urgently needed to determine safe, effective delivery and to assess efficacy in human trials.
Source: Duffy C. et al. (2020). Honeybee venom and melittin suppress growth factor receptor activation in HER2-enriched and triple-negative breast cancer. npj Precision Oncology, 4, 24.
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