Antimicrobial Peptides: Structure, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Potential in Combating Infectious Diseases.

Abstract

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are small, naturally occurring molecules that play a key role in the immune defense of multicellular organisms. They show strong and broad activity against many harmful agents, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and even cancer cells. Because of their unique ability to target pathogens in multiple ways, AMPs are being studied as promising alternatives to traditional antibiotics-especially important given the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. AMPs can be grouped based on their structure, such as α-helical, β-sheet, loop, or extended forms, and by their source or biological activity. Their main ways of fighting microbes include damaging microbial membranes, disrupting essential processes inside cells, and helping regulate the host's immune system. These mechanisms make it difficult for pathogens to develop resistance, increasing their value in modern medicine. Therapeutically, AMPs are under investigation for a range of applications, including treatment of skin infections, respiratory diseases, sepsis, and some viral and cancer-related conditions. Several AMP-based drugs are in clinical trials, and a few have already reached the market. However, challenges remain, such as poor stability in the body, vulnerability to breakdown by enzymes, potential toxicity, and high production costs. Current research is focusing on improving their effectiveness through chemical modifications, smart design, and advanced delivery systems like nanoparticles. AMPs hold great potential in the search for nextgeneration anti-infective therapies.