Antimicrobial Peptides in Focus: Functional Potential and Translational Evidence from Swine Systems.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Veterinary Medicine
• Food Science

Background:

• Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are diverse bioactive molecules with broad-spectrum antimicrobial and immunomodulatory functions.
• AMPs present a viable alternative to traditional antibiotics in animal agriculture due to efficacy, low resistance development, biodegradability, and lack of residues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current AMP classification, structural/functional characteristics, and biological activities.
• To explore AMP applications in swine production for animal health and food safety.
• To highlight emerging strategies for improving AMP stability, efficacy, and applicability.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of AMP classification schemes and biological activities.
• Analysis of evidence from swine production regarding AMP efficacy.
• Discussion of multidisciplinary strategies for AMP enhancement.

Main Results:

• AMPs exhibit significant potential in enhancing animal health and reducing antibiotic use in agriculture.
• Evidence supports AMPs' role in improving the safety of animal-derived foods.
• Advanced strategies like peptide engineering and AI-assisted design show promise for AMP optimization.

Conclusions:

• AMPs are promising alternatives to antibiotics in animal agriculture, with demonstrated benefits in swine production.
• Multidisciplinary approaches are crucial for overcoming challenges and maximizing AMP utility in agricultural and food systems.
• Further research into AMPs can lead to reduced antibiotic reliance and improved food safety.