Scorpion Venom Peptide BmKDfsin3 Blocks SFTS Virus and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 in Cell Tests by Boosting Interferon Signaling
Researchers at Hubei University of Technology, Hubei University of Medicine, and partner institutions in China reported in Microbiology Spectrum on October 28, 2026 that BmKDfsin3, a scorpion venom peptide, reduced replication of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (an RNA virus) and herpes simplex virus type 1 (a DNA virus) in human lung cells, mainly after the viruses entered. The peptide blocked the viruses' activation of the p38 pathway and strengthened type I and III interferon responses. It showed low toxicity to cells, red blood cells, and mice; antiviral effects have not been tested in animals or people.