title: The unfulfilled promises of scorpion insectotoxins.
abstract: Since the description and biochemical characterization of the first insect-specific neurotoxins from scorpion venoms, almost all contributions have highlighted their potential application as leads for the development of potent bioinsecticides. Their practical use, however, has been hindered by different factors, some of which are intrinsically related to the toxins and other external determinants. Recent developments in the understanding of the action mechanisms of the scorpion insectotoxins and their bioactive surfaces, coupled with the exploration of novel bioinsecticide delivery systems have renewed the expectations that the scorpion insectotoxins could find their way into commercial applications in agriculture, as part of integrated pest control strategies. Herein, we review the current arsenal of available scorpion neurotoxins with a degree of specificity for insects, the progress made with alternative delivery methods, and the drawbacks that still preclude their practical use.
authors.affiliation: Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autonóma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Cuernavaca, 62210 Mexico.
authors.forename: Ernesto
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Ortiz
authors.affiliation: Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autonóma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Cuernavaca, 62210 Mexico.
authors.forename: Lourival D
authors.initials: LD
authors.lastname: Possani
keywords: Bioinsecticides; Insectotoxins; Scorpion venom