Antimicrobial Peptides: A Promising Alternative to Conventional Antimicrobials for Combating Polymicrobial Biofilms

Author(s):Show less -

Roque-Borda, Cesar Augusto ; Primo, Laura Maria Duran Gleriani ; Medina-Alarcon, Kaila Petronila ; Campos, Isabella C. ; Nascimento, Camila de Fatima ; Saraiva, Mauro M. S. ; Berchieri, Angelo ; Fusco-Almeida, Ana Marisa ; Mendes-Giannini, Maria Jose Soares ; Perdigao, Joao ; Pavan, Fernando Rogerio ; Albericio, Fernando

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: ADVANCED SCIENCE; v. N/A, p. 29-pg., 2024-11-12.

Abstract

Polymicrobial biofilms adhere to surfaces and enhance pathogen resistance to conventional treatments, significantly contributing to chronic infections in the respiratory tract, oral cavity, chronic wounds, and on medical devices. This review examines antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics for treating biofilm-associated infections. AMPs, which can be produced as part of the innate immune response or synthesized therapeutically, have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, often disrupting microbial cell membranes and causing cell death. Many specifically target negatively charged bacterial membranes, unlike host cell membranes. Research shows AMPs effectively inhibit and disrupt polymicrobial biofilms and can enhance conventional antibiotics' efficacy. Preclinical and clinical research is advancing, with animal studies and clinical trials showing promise against multidrug-resistant bacteria and fungi. Numerous patents indicate increasing interest in AMPs. However, challenges such as peptide stability, potential cytotoxicity, and high production costs must be addressed. Ongoing research focuses on optimizing AMP structures, enhancing stability, and developing cost-effective production methods. In summary, AMPs offer a novel approach to combating biofilm-associated infections, with their unique mechanisms and synergistic potential with existing antibiotics positioning them as promising candidates for future treatments. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 23/01664-1 - Synthesis and characterization of antimicrobial peptide "B1CTcu5" analogs encapsulated in colon-specific microparticles and in vitro an in vivo studies against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• Grantee: Fernando Rogério Pavan
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 21/14603-5 - Drug discovery and design: antimicrobial peptide B1CTcu5 analogs promising against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• Grantee: Cesar Augusto Roque Borda
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 20/16573-3 - In vitro and in vivo studies of antimicrobial peptide B1CTcu5 analogs encapsulated in colon-specific microparticles against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• Grantee: Cesar Augusto Roque Borda
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate