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Innovative Medicines & Omics Smp43 peptide

2.5. Role of Smp43 in cell signaling pathways Smp43 may directly interact with PI3K, inhibiting its
kinase activity and thereby blocking the conversion of PIP2
2.5.1. PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway
to PIP3, a crucial step for activating the AKT pathway. By
The PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway is essential for reducing PIP3 levels, Smp43 diminishes the recruitment
regulating various cellular functions, including growth, and activation of AKT at the cell membrane. 19
proliferation, survival, and metabolism (Figure 3). Smp43 has been demonstrated to lower the
Dysregulation of this pathway is linked to several diseases, phosphorylation of AKT at key activation sites (Thr308
such as cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. and Ser473), decreasing its kinase activity and subsequent

Table 1. Summary of the role of Smp43
Aspect Role of Smp43
Source Smp43 is derived from the venom of the Egyptian scorpion, Scorpio maurus palmatus 6
Antimicrobial activity Exhibits potent antimicrobial properties against various bacterial strains, including both Gram-positive and
Gram-negative bacteria 3
Antifungal activity Demonstrates significant antifungal effects against different fungal species 10
Mechanism of action Disrupts microbial cell membranes, leading to cell lysis and death 3
Cytotoxicity Exhibits selective cytotoxicity, being toxic to microbial cells while sparing mammalian cells at effective concentrations 14
Therapeutic potential Potential candidate for developing new antimicrobial and antifungal drugs 13
Immunomodulatory effects May modulate the immune response, although more research is needed to fully understand these effects 8
Stability Generally stable under physiological conditions, making it a viable option for therapeutic applications 5
Resistance development Lower likelihood of resistance development compared to traditional antibiotics 7
Biofilm disruption Effective in disrupting biofilms, which are protective layers formed by bacteria and fungi 10
Potential side effects Minimal side effects at therapeutic doses, although comprehensive toxicological studies are necessary
12
Research status Under investigation in preclinical studies, with ongoing research to fully elucidate its therapeutic potential and
safety profile

Figure 3. Effects of Smp43 on different cell signaling pathways

Volume 1 Issue 1 (2024) 76 doi: 10.36922/imo.4353