Antimicrobial peptides: An alternative strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Immunology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are crucial components of the innate immune system in eukaryotes and prokaryotes.
• They possess direct microbicidal properties and immunomodulatory activities against various pathogens.
• The rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) necessitates novel therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs).
• To explore the therapeutic applications of AMPs in treating multidrug-resistant infections, inflammation, and promoting wound healing.
• To discuss the challenges hindering the clinical application of AMPs.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes existing literature on antimicrobial peptides.
• It examines their mechanisms of action, including membrane disruption and inhibition of essential cellular processes.
• The review also covers their therapeutic potential and clinical limitations.

Main Results:

• AMPs demonstrate broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, primarily through membrane disruption leading to cell lysis.
• Additional mechanisms include inhibition of cell wall, nucleic acid, and protein synthesis.
• AMPs show potential in combating multidrug-resistant microbes and aiding wound healing.

Conclusions:

• Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent a viable alternative to conventional antibiotics in the face of rising AMR.
• Their diverse mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential are significant.
• Overcoming challenges in clinical application is key to realizing their full potential.