Natural and Synthetic AMPs from Latin America across Diversity Engineering and Applications

Area of Science:

• Bioprospecting and Drug Discovery
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Infectious Diseases Research

Background:

• Latin America boasts immense biodiversity, a rich source for natural product research and drug discovery.
• Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from this region are increasingly engineered for enhanced therapeutic properties.
• AMPs show potential against various pathogens and beyond infectious diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore Latin America's role as a source of inspiration and innovation in antimicrobial peptide (AMP) development.
• To review the region's contributions to natural and synthetic AMPs for anti-infective applications.
• To assess advancements in engineering AMPs to combat resistant bacteria.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific studies on AMPs from Latin American natural products.
• Analysis of rational design, SAR studies, AI, and machine learning in AMP modification.
• Examination of diverse biological activities and sources of identified AMPs.

Main Results:

• Latin America's biodiversity is a significant reservoir for AMP discovery.
• Advanced methodologies are refining AMPs for improved potency and physicochemical properties.
• AMPs derived from the region show broad-spectrum antimicrobial and potential non-infectious disease applications.

Conclusions:

• Latin America is a crucial region for AMP discovery and innovation in anti-infective drug development.
• Continued research and technological integration are vital to harness the full potential of regional AMPs.
• Addressing challenges in AMP engineering is key to combating antimicrobial resistance.