From Innate Immunity to Cancer Therapy: Antimicrobial Peptides as Emerging Anticancer Agents

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Immunology
• Oncology

Background:

• Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are innate immune molecules with selective cytotoxicity against tumor cells.
• AMPs exhibit membrane-disruptive activity and immunomodulatory effects, offering a novel therapeutic avenue.
• Anticancer peptides (ACPs) leverage unique cancer cell membrane properties for rapid anti-tumor action with minimal impact on normal tissues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on AMPs and ACPs as anticancer agents.
• To discuss their classification, mechanisms of action, and delivery strategies.
• To highlight preclinical/clinical data and identify future research directions for clinical translation.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing scientific literature on antimicrobial and anticancer peptides.
• Analysis of peptide engineering techniques (e.g., D-amino acid substitution, cyclization, PEGylation).
• Examination of nanocarrier systems for improved peptide delivery and stability.

Main Results:

• AMPs and ACPs demonstrate potential in preclinical and clinical models.
• These peptides can induce immunogenic cell death and modify tumor microenvironments.
• Combinatorial approaches with conventional therapies show promise.

Conclusions:

• AMPs and ACPs represent promising novel cancer therapeutics with selective cytotoxicity.
• Engineering advances and nanocarrier systems enhance peptide stability and bioavailability.
• Overcoming challenges like proteolytic degradation, toxicity, cost, and regulatory issues is crucial for clinical translation.