RT Journal Article T1 Bee venom: an updating review of its bioactive molecules and its health applications A1 Carpena Rodríguez, María A1 Núñez Estévez, Bernabé A1 Soria Lopez, Anton A1 Simal Gándara, Jesús K1 3209.04 Medicamentos Naturales K1 5101.13 Medicina Tradicional K1 3104.01 Apicultura AB Bee venom (BV) is usually associated with pain since, when humans are stung by bees, local inflammation and even an allergic reaction can be produced. BV has been traditionally used in ancient medicine and in acupuncture. It consists of a mixture of substances, principally of proteins and peptides, including enzymes as well as other types of molecules in a very low concentration. Melittin and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) are the most abundant and studied compounds of BV. Literature of the main biological activities exerted by BV shows that most studies focuses on the comprehension and test of anti-inflammatory effects and its mechanisms of action. Other properties such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, neuroprotective or antitumor effects have also been assessed, both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, human trials are necessary to confirm those clinical applications. However, notwithstanding the therapeutic potential of BV, there are certain problems regarding its safety and the possible appearance of adverse effects. On this perspective, new approaches have been developed to avoid these complications. This manuscript is aimed at reviewing the actual knowledge on BV components and its associated biological activities as well as the latest advances on this subject. PB Nutrients SN 20726643 YR 2020 FD 2020-10-31 LK http://hdl.handle.net/11093/2010 UL http://hdl.handle.net/11093/2010 LA eng NO Nutrients, 12(11): 3360 (2020) NO European Union | Ref. 0181_NANOEATERS_01_E DS Investigo RD 11-dic-2024