Cytotoxic effects of venom and its HPLC fractions on lung cancer cells.

Background: Several studies have pointed out that certain snake venoms contain compounds presenting cytotoxic activities that selectively interfere with cancer cell metabolism. In this study, venom and its fractions were investigated for their anticancer potential on lung cancer cells.

Methods: Lung cancer cells (A549) and normal fibroblast cells (Hu02) were treated with the venom and its HPLC fractions and the cell cytotoxic effects were analyzed using MTT and lactate dehydrogenase release assays.