Therapeutic Potential of <i>Solenopsis invicta</i> Venom: A Scoping Review of Its Bioactive Molecules, Biological Aspects, and Health Applications.

Abstract

<i>Solenopsis invicta,</i> a South American ant species from the Formicidae family (subfamily Myrmicinae), has recently established a stable settlement in Europe, raising public health concerns due to its venomous stings. The venom of <i>S. invicta</i> is rich in bioactive molecules, particularly piperidine alkaloids such as solenopsin A and peptides (Sol 1-4). These compounds have been implicated in various health applications, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antitumour activities. While previous reviews have focused on the ecological and allergenic risks posed by <i>S. invicta,</i> this scoping review aims to evaluate the potential therapeutic uses of <i>S. invicta</i> venom by summarizing existing scientific evidence and providing a novel synthesis of recent research on its bioactive components. Furthermore, this study, by describing the unique biological aspects of <i>S. invicta</i>, provides an overview of its direct impact on public health, highlighting new findings on the venom's role in inhibiting bacterial biofilm formation and modulating cancer growth pathways through gene regulation. A search of databases (PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Cochrane Library) identified 12,340 articles, from which 11 studies met the eligibility criteria. These studies included seven microbiological investigations and four studies on tumour cell lines and animal models. The findings suggest that <i>S. invicta</i> venom could inhibit biofilm formation, combat fungal infections, and suppress tumour growth. However, further research, including clinical trials, is required to fully elucidate the safety and efficacy of these bioactive molecules in human medicine, for their potential use in drug discovery to counteract several diseases, including cancer.