Advancing antimicrobial peptides: Overcoming challenges in the era of bacterial resistance

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacteria poses a significant public health threat, necessitating the development of alternative treatments. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have emerged as promising candidates to address this issue due to their potent antimicrobial activity and diverse functional properties, which provide distinct advantages over conventional antibiotics. However, the clinical application of AMPs has been hindered by several challenges, including instability in vivo, safety concerns, and varying efficacy in vivo. To overcome these limitations, innovative approaches to AMP design and modification, as well as advanced delivery systems, are being actively investigated. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the classification, structural characteristics, and mechanisms of action of AMPs. Recent advances in AMP design and modification are highlighted, with a focus on strategies aimed at enhancing their therapeutic potential. Additionally, the development of delivery systems and formulation strategies for AMPs is discussed, with an emphasis on improving bioavailability, targeted distribution, and effectiveness in combating drug-resistant bacterial infections.