Novel Retro-Inverso Peptide Antibiotic Efficiently Released by a Responsive Hydrogel-Based System.

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Biotechnology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Topical antimicrobials face challenges with resistant skin infections.
• Developing novel antimicrobials and effective delivery systems is crucial.
• Antimicrobial resistance necessitates innovative therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the therapeutic potential of a novel peptidomimetic derived from human apolipoprotein B.
• To evaluate the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties of the peptidomimetic.
• To develop and assess a hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel for targeted antimicrobial delivery.

Main Methods:

• A novel peptidomimetic was designed and synthesized.
• Antimicrobial and anti-biofilm assays were performed.
• Biocompatibility testing on human skin cell lines was conducted.
• A hyaluronic acid hydrogel was formulated to encapsulate the peptidomimetic.
• In vitro efficacy of the hydrogel system was evaluated against bacterial infections.

Main Results:

• The peptidomimetic demonstrated significant antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity (2.5–20 µmol L⁻¹).
• The compound was biocompatible with human skin cell lines.
• The peptidomimetic protected human keratinocytes, reducing bacterial load by 2-4 orders of magnitude.
• The hyaluronic acid hydrogel effectively encapsulated and delivered the antimicrobial agent.

Conclusions:

• The novel peptidomimetic exhibits potent antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties.
• The hyaluronic acid hydrogel system provides effective and targeted delivery of the antimicrobial agent.
• This combined approach offers a promising therapeutic strategy for recalcitrant skin infections.