Proteomic Exploration of the Recently Re-classified Forest Cobra Naja Species and the Potential Cytotoxic Activity in Cancer Cell Lines

African forest cobra venom is a rich source of bioactive compounds such as cytotoxins, which cause tissue necrosis and descending paralysis. However, the venom has also been identified as a potential source of therapeutic agents, including anticancer agents. In this study, we evaluate the anticancer effects of the N. melanoleuca, N. subfulva, and N. savannula venoms and their fractions against the selected cell lines. The 3FTxs and PLA2s, which are the most abundant protein families in the venoms, are predominantly responsible for the cytotoxic effects. In conclusion, this research study highlights the important role of forest cobra venoms as potential resources that researchers can further exploit to investigate the molecules responsible for the anticancer effect and investigate their mechanisms of action.