Work

Mode-of-Action of Antimicrobial Peptides: Membrane Disruption vs. Intracellular Mechanisms

Year: 2020

Type: article

Abstract: Antimicrobial peptides are an attractive alternative to traditional antibiotics, due to their physicochemical properties, activity toward a broad spectrum of bacteria, and mode-of-actions distinct from those used by current antibiotics. In general, antimicrobial peptides kill bacteria by either disrupting their membrane, or by entering inside bacterial cells to interact with intracellular components. Characterization of their mode-of-action is essential to improve their activity, avoid resistance in bacterial pathogens, and accelerate their use as therapeutics. Here we review experimental biophysical tools that can be employed with model membranes and bacterial cells to characterize the mode-of-action of antimicrobial peptides.

Source: Frontiers in Medical Technology

DOI: 10.3389/fmedt.2020.610997

Authors: Aurélie H. Benfield, Sónia Troeira Henriques

Institutions: Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, ARC Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science

Language: English

Topic: Antimicrobial Peptides and Activities

Subfield: Microbiology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,900