Parasporins(PSs) represent a novel functional category of crystal proteins (Cry) produced by non-insecticidal Bacillus thuringiensisA distinct feature for PSs is their specific cytotoxicity against human cancer cells from diverse origins, other than hemolytic or insecticidal activityAs structurally/functionally Cry proteins, parasporins are expressed as protoxins that require protease cleavage for activationCurrently, identified PSs is classified into 6 groups:PS1, PS2, PS3, PS4, PS5 and PS6, which are heterogeneous in cytotoxic spectrum and activity levelSome PSs have been explored for their mode of anticancer activities, reports mainly include pore formation induced by binding to putative receptors on cell membrane and apoptosis by intracellular Ca 2+concentrationFurther work should focus on the identification of new PS or PS homologs and better understanding of their anticancer mechanism before possible application in cancer therapy.