contortrostatin

Contortrostatin is a homodimeric disintegrin isolated from the venom of the southern copperhead snake (*Agkistrodon contortrix contortrix*). It acts as a multi-integrin antagonist, targeting integrins such as alpha-v beta-3, alpha-v beta-5, alpha-5 beta-1, and alpha-IIb beta-3. By binding to these integrins on both tumor cells and angiogenic vascular endothelial cells, contortrostatin inhibits cell adhesion, migration, invasion, and tumor-induced angiogenesis. It has been preclinically investigated for its antitumor and anti-metastatic properties, particularly in breast cancer, prostate cancer, and melanoma. Recombinant and chimeric derivatives, such as vicrostatin, have also been developed to improve production and therapeutic delivery.