Bee Venom Kills Breast Cancer Cells

The consistent focus regarding breast cancer awareness has shed light on a novel and innovative approaches in how the devastating disease can be approached for treatment. According to an article published by the BCC in early September, scientists in Australia have discovered that honeybee venom can kill breast cancer cells in a laboratory setting. 

A chemical compound found in bee venom called melittin has been found to destroy two types of aggressive breast cancer cells; HER-2 enriched and triple-negative. Although the finding is exciting, scientists exercise caution since few of the many compounds discovered to kill cancer can’t be produced to treat humans just yet.  

The research consisted of 300 honeybees and bumblebees. The melittin was able to successfully “shut down” the cancer growth process without harming non-cancer cells. Melittin can be synthetically produced in the laboratory. Triple-negative breast cancers are among the most aggressive types of cancers that count for 10-15% of all breast cancers. 

 Although the research is still in its early stages. The discovery has the potential provided the results of the study that’s been observed so far. Early detection is still one of the most effective forms of treatment. LabFinder offers various medical tests with a secure patient portal that seamlessly integrates results from any lab or radiology imaging center in our system. Click here to book your mammogram appointment.