Antimicrobial Peptides

• Published in: Current pharmacology reports 2023-12, Vol.9 (6), p.433-454
• Main Authors: Mohaideen, Noorul Samsoon Maharifa Haja, Vaani, S., Hemalatha, S.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biomedical and Life Sciences; Biomedicine; Cancer Research; Molecular Medicine; Nanomaterials; Oncolytics in Cancer Biology and Biotechnology; Pharmacology/Toxicology; Topical Collection on Natural compounds
• ISSN: 2198-641X; 2198-641X
• DOI: 10.1007/s40495-023-00342-y

Purpose of Review The review provides deep understanding on antimicrobial peptides, properties, mechanisms, role in treating diseases, computational drug design, and database updates. Recent Findings Recent research has highlighted the growing concern of antibiotic resistance, and has prompted the search for alternative treatments. In response, advances in technology have led to the discovery of novel antimicrobial peptides from a variety of organisms. These peptides are being investigated as potential therapeutics for communicable diseases in humans, animals, and plants. However, a major challenge is to ensure that the effectiveness of these peptides in treating infections is not compromised by the development of resistance. Currently, there is ongoing research to evaluate the safety and efficacy of these novel AMPs in clinical trials, and to determine their potential role in the drug market. Summary Microbes, including COVID-19, biofilm-related infections, and antimicrobial resistance, are significant threats to human health. AMPs have potential as effective treatments due to their broad-spectrum activity and specific modes of action. However, developing AMPs as drugs may be limited by factors such as toxicity, protease susceptibility and high production costs.