Peptide Antibiotics: Harnessing Natural and Synthetic Molecules to Combat Drug-Resistant Infections
Peptide antibiotics are short amino acid chains that kill bacteria by disrupting cell membranes, inhibiting protein synthesis, or targeting essential metabolic pathways. They include natural antimicrobial peptides and synthetic analogs designed to fight resistant pathogens.
These agents show broad-spectrum activity, rapid action, and reduced likelihood of resistance development. Their mechanisms often involve membrane destabilization, making it difficult for bacteria to adapt.
Peptide antibiotics are used to treat skin infections, bloodstream infections, pneumonia, and drug-resistant strains such as MRSA. Research focuses on improving stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery. Nanotechnology, encapsulation techniques, and peptide engineering continue to advance the therapeutic potential of these powerful molecules.
FAQ
Q1: What makes peptide antibiotics unique?A1: Their ability to rapidly destroy bacteria with low resistance risk.


