In a breakthrough that could reshape cancer treatment, scientists have discovered that honeybee venom can destroy 100% of aggressive breast cancer cells in less than 60 minutes. The key lies in a powerful compound called melittin, found in bee venom but not in wasp venom.

Researchers tested the venom on different types of breast cancer cells in laboratory dishes and found that melittin acts like a precisely targeted weapon. It punches holes in the membranes of cancerous cells, causing them to die quickly. Even more promising is that melittin leaves healthy cells largely unharmed, suggesting it could be used for treatments with fewer side effects than chemotherapy or radiation.

Melittin proved particularly effective against triple-negative breast cancer and HER2-enriched breast cancer, two of the hardest types to treat. This discovery opens new doors for developing safer, more targeted cancer therapies using natural compounds.

Scientists are now working to harness melittin’s cancer-fighting power in a controlled way, possibly through nanoparticles or synthetic versions that could be used in future medicines. While more research is needed, this natural molecule from bees offers a powerful new weapon in the fight against cancer.