Antimicrobial Peptides
Research peptides with direct antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and biofilms, including host defense peptides and synthetic analogs.
Antimicrobial Peptides
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are an ancient class of immune effectors found across all kingdoms of life. These peptides typically disrupt microbial membranes, inhibit intracellular targets, or modulate the host immune response to infection. Research interest has surged due to rising antibiotic resistance.
Complete Peptide Directory
| Peptide | Description | Primary Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| LL-37 | Human cathelicidin with broad-spectrum antimicrobial and immune-signaling activity | Membrane disruption; LPS neutralization; biofilm disruption; immune cell chemotaxis |
| Magainin | Frog-derived antimicrobial peptide with selective membrane activity | Pore formation in microbial membranes; selectivity for bacterial lipid composition |
| Protegrin | Beta-hairpin antimicrobial peptide from porcine leukocytes | Transmembrane pore formation; broad-spectrum activity against bacteria and fungi |
| Defensin Beta | Human beta-defensin family of innate immune antimicrobial peptides | Electrostatic membrane disruption; immune cell recruitment; mucosal defense |
| Cathelicidin (CAMP) | Precursor antimicrobial protein processed to active LL-37 fragment | Broad-spectrum antimicrobial; wound healing; immune signaling cascade |
| Histatin-5 | Salivary antimicrobial peptide with potent antifungal activity | Mitochondrial targeting in fungi; oral cavity defense against Candida |
| Dermcidin | Constitutively expressed antimicrobial peptide in human sweat | Skin surface antimicrobial defense; broad-spectrum activity in acidic pH |
| AMP Peptide | Synthetic antimicrobial peptide designed for enhanced microbial killing | Engineered membrane disruption; optimized charge and hydrophobicity |
Common Research Themes
Membrane Disruption: Most AMPs (LL-37, Magainin, Protegrin, Defensin Beta) work by inserting into microbial membranes, creating pores or destabilizing the lipid bilayer. This mechanism makes resistance development more difficult compared to conventional antibiotics.
Biofilm Activity: LL-37 and Protegrin have demonstrated ability to disrupt established biofilms and prevent biofilm formation, making them key peptides for medical device-associated infection and chronic wound research.
Dual Immunomodulatory-Antimicrobial Role: LL-37 and Defensin Beta exemplify the dual nature of many AMPs — they directly kill pathogens while simultaneously modulating the host immune response, recruiting immune cells and regulating inflammation.
Tissue-Specific Defense: Histatin-5 (oral cavity), Dermcidin (skin), and Defensin Beta (mucosal surfaces) each protect specific body surfaces, reflecting the tissue-specific deployment of innate antimicrobial defense.
Antibiotic Resistance Alternative: With antibiotic-resistant infections increasing globally, AMPs are being studied as potential alternatives or adjuncts to conventional antibiotics due to their distinct mechanisms of action.
Getting Started
If you are new to this category, we recommend starting with LL-37 — the most well-characterized human antimicrobial peptide with extensive research on both direct antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. From there, explore related peptides through the See Also sections on each page to build a comprehensive understanding of the research landscape.
Thymic & Immune Peptides
Research peptides derived from or acting on the thymus gland, modulating T-cell maturation, innate immunity, and age-related immune decline.
Cosmetic & Skin Peptides
Research peptides that stimulate collagen synthesis, reduce wrinkle formation, improve skin tone, and support dermal regeneration.