Antifungal peptides from living organisms

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Rising concerns over microbial, particularly fungal, infections post-COVID-19.
• Limited efficacy and emerging resistance of current antifungal agents against species like Candida, Cryptococcus, and Aspergillus.
• Urgent need for novel antifungal strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of natural antifungal peptides (AFPs).
• To discuss the origin, classification, and mechanisms of action of AFPs.
• To explore the production and applications of AFPs in clinical and food industries.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on natural antifungal peptides.
• Analysis of AFP classification and modes of action.
• Evaluation of production methods (natural, semisynthetic, synthetic) and applications.

Main Results:

• Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), including AFPs, exhibit broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
• AFPs are highly selective and less likely to induce drug resistance compared to conventional antifungals.
• Natural, semisynthetic, and synthetic AFPs offer diverse production avenues.

Conclusions:

• AFPs represent a highly promising alternative to existing antifungal therapies.
• Further research into AFP production and applications can address challenges in antifungal resistance.
• AFPs hold significant potential for clinical and food industry applications.