Innate immune response modulation by Androctonus venom in post-burn Staphylococcus aureus model

Background Scorpion venoms are rich sources of bioactive molecules with high selectivity for various targets in cells, suggesting significant potential for modulating inflammatory diseases. Staphylococcus aureus infection remains a major clinical concern, particularly in patients with thermal injury.Aim This study investigates the therapeutic potential of crude Androctonus australis hector (Aah) venom in modulating the host immune response against S. aureus superinfection in a post-burn skin model.Experimental approach A mouse model of cutaneous infection was established by inducing a S. aureus superinfection on burned skin, followed by topical application of Aah venom. Clinical parameters, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, as well as histopathological and immunohistochemistry analyses were assessed at 24- and 72 hours post-infection.Key findings Data reveal that Aah venom enhances the innate anti-bacterial response by promoting macrophage (CD68+) and leucocyte infiltration. This is accompanied by an anti-bacterial ROS-dependent response, evidenced by H2O2 accumulation and NO release following iNOS activation, along with increased collagen production. Collectively, these mechanisms contribute to accelerated bacterial clearance, resulting in improved tissue healing and stabilized clinical parameters 72 hours post-treatment.Conclusion Our results suggest possible bivalent and biphasic effects of crude Aah venom in immunomodulating the antibacterial response and accelerating the healing process, warranting further studies to identify responsible components and mechanisms.