Temporin-Derived Peptides Protect Mice against Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 Infection by Inhibiting...

Intestinal inflammation can destroy the integrity of the intestinal barrier and disrupt immune homeostasis, increasing the risks of developing fatal diseases. Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157:H7, a prominent pathogen primarily transmitted through contaminated food, is known to trigger intestinal inflammation and subsequent infections. Temporin-GHbK (GHbK) and temporin-GHb3K (GHb3K), derived from temporin-GHb of Hylarana guentheri, were synthesized and demonstrated antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activities against EHEC in vitro. They also exhibited efficacy in preventing EHEC infection in vivo. GHbK and GHb3K significantly decreased the disease activity index (DAI) in EHEC-infected mice in comparison with the untreated model group. The derived peptides exhibited barrier-protective effects by preserving structural integrity, reducing inflammatory infiltrates in the intestinal epithelium, and maintaining gut microbiota diversity. Taken together, GHbK and GHb3K exhibit promising anti-inflammatory and anti-infection potential against EHEC infection. These findings lay a foundation for exploring the application of antibacterial peptides in the treatment of EHEC infection.