Antimicrobial peptide

Antimicrobial peptides (pronounced: an-tee-my-kroh-bee-ul pep-tides) are a unique and diverse group of molecules which are produced by virtually all living organisms and play a key role in the first line of defense against bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections.

Etymology

The term "antimicrobial peptide" is derived from the Greek words "anti" (against), "micros" (small), and "bios" (life), referring to their function against microscopic life forms, and "peptide", a term derived from the Greek "peptos" (digested), referring to their small size and protein-like nature.

Function

Antimicrobial peptides are part of the innate immune system, which provides a rapid and broad-spectrum response to potential pathogens. They are typically less than 100 amino acids in length and possess both hydrophobic and cationic properties, allowing them to disrupt the integrity of bacterial cell membranes and cause cell death.

Types

There are several types of antimicrobial peptides, including defensins, cathelicidins, and histatins. Defensins are found in both vertebrates and invertebrates, while cathelicidins are found primarily in vertebrates. Histatins are found in human saliva and have antifungal properties.

Clinical significance

Antimicrobial peptides have potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of infectious diseases, cancer, and autoimmune diseases. They are also being studied for their potential use as antibiotics to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Related terms

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Antimicrobial peptide

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