Recent Advances in Antimicrobial Proteins and Peptides: A Promising Clinical Breakthrough and Patent Landscape

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR, when microbes stop responding to medicines) is a growing worldwide concern calling for novel alternatives to conventional antibiotics. Because of their wide range of efficacy, ability to support the body's natural defenses, and possible use in the treatment of cancer and inflammation-related illnesses, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs, short chains of amino acids that kill harmful microbes) and proteins stand out among these substitutes. In contrast to standard antibiotics, AMPs act against several cellular targets, making it harder for microbes to become drug-resistant. Despite challenges such as stability, scalability of production, and regulatory constraints, this review discusses recent progress in advancing the clinical utility of AMPs through synergistic approaches with approved drugs and sophisticated delivery systems. It highlights the strategic integration of biotechnological advancements with established AMP therapy, potentially providing efficient and cost-effective treatment options for infections that no longer respond to standard antibiotics. These trends position AMPs as next-generation therapeutics to address global health challenges.