Title:New Insights from Toxinology in Mammalian Reproduction: A Systematic Review
Volume: 25
Issue: 22
Author(s): Gabriel Acacio de Moura*, Yasmim Mendes Rocha, Joao Pedro Viana Rodrigues, Joshua Levi Maia Magalhaes, Hamilton de Martin, Sebastiao Evangelista Torquato Filho, Eduardo de Paula Miranda and Roberto Nicolete
Affiliation:
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas (PPGCF), Universidade Federal do Ceará - Fortaleza, CE,
Brasil
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, CE - Eusébio, CE, Brasil
Keywords:
Venoms, reproductive medicine, oocytes, spermatozoa, assisted reproduction techniques, venom.
Abstract:
Introduction: Assisted reproductive techniques still have limitations regarding embryonic
development and the achievement of clinical pregnancy. Animal venoms represent a biological
library with the potential to trigger relevant cellular mechanisms. This study aimed to evaluate,
through a literature review and computational screening, the activity of natural venoms and their
derivatives on germ cells.
Materials and Methods: A literature review was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web
of Science databases. Inclusion criteria: experimental studies involving oocytes, spermatozoa, or
embryos in vitro/in vivo. Exclusion criteria: review articles, letters to the editor, abstracts, books,
and studies outside the scope. Extracted data included the type of venom, source species, experimental
model, effects, mechanisms, and administration routes.
Methodological quality was assessed using funnel plots, forest plots, and the SYRCLE tool. Computational
screening was performed targeting hormonal receptors.
Results: Of the 584 articles analyzed, only 19 met the eligibility criteria. Among these, 57% investigated
snake venom, 16% spider venom, 16% bee venom, and 10% sea anemone/scorpion venom.
High heterogeneity was observed in the effects on sperm motility (I² = 97%) and sperm concentration
(I² = 95%), although a positive effect on concentration was detected. All molecules showed activity
on estrogen receptors.
Discussion: The findings suggest that venoms and their derivatives can modulate gamete functions,
with effects influenced by the chemical diversity of toxins and variations in experimental models.
Computational screening highlights potential molecular interactions with hormonal pathways, reinforcing
their relevance as modulators of reproductive processes.
Conclusion: Animal venoms and their derivatives can exert biological activity on germ cells (oocytes,
spermatozoa, and embryos).
