Antimicrobial peptides
Antimicrobial peptides
Antimicrobial peptides (pronunciation: an-tee-my-kro-bee-ul pep-tides) are a unique and diverse group of molecules, which are key components of the innate immune response that has been found in virtually all classes of life.
Etymology
The term "antimicrobial" is derived from the Greek words "anti" (against), "micros" (small) and "bios" (life). The word "peptide" comes from the Greek "peptos" meaning "digested", referring to the fact that peptides are digested from proteins.
Definition
Antimicrobial peptides are small proteins, typically comprising 12-50 amino acids, that can kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. They are produced by a wide range of organisms, including humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms.
Function
Antimicrobial peptides function by disrupting the integrity of the microbial cell membrane, leading to cell death. They can also modulate the host immune response and have a role in wound healing.
Types
There are several types of antimicrobial peptides, including defensins, cathelicidins, and bacteriocins. Each type has a unique structure and mode of action.
Clinical significance
Antimicrobial peptides have potential applications in the treatment of infectious diseases, especially those caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. They are also being investigated for their potential use in cancer therapy.
Related terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Antimicrobial peptides
- Wikipedia's article - Antimicrobial peptides
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