Snake venom protein tested as cancer treatment in humans

NCT ID NCT01481532

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: Celtic Biotech Ltd Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This early-stage trial tests crotoxin, a protein from rattlesnake venom, given intravenously to 24 adults with advanced solid tumors that have not responded to standard therapy. The main goal is to see if a slow dose increase can make the drug safer and better tolerated. Researchers will also watch for any signs that the drug might shrink tumors.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: crotoxin (a protein from rattlesnake venom)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new way to control advanced cancers that have not responded to standard treatments.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small Phase 1 trial with only 24 people. The main goal is safety, not yet proof that it shrinks tumors. Crotoxin has caused serious side effects in the past.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cancer neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest

Saint-Herblain, 44805, France

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