A REVIEW OF ANTIMICROBIAL COMPOUNDS THAT APPEAR TO BE PROMISING

Abstract

The growing prevalence of community-acquired pathogens, particularly those resistant to conventional antibiotics, has emerged as a significant public health concern. The rapid evolution and adaptability of these microbial species have rendered many standard treatments ineffective, prompting the urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have garnered increasing attention as a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics. These naturally occurring molecules are part of the innate immune system in a wide range of organisms, including humans, plants, amphibians, and marine species. AMPs exhibit broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and are effective against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and even cancer cells. What makes AMPs particularly valuable is their unique structure and multifaceted mechanism of action. Unlike traditional antibiotics that often target specific bacterial processes, AMPs disrupt microbial membranes, interfere with intracellular functions, and modulate host immune responses. This multi-targeted approach reduces the likelihood of resistance development, making AMPs a powerful tool in combating multidrug-resistant infections. This review provides a comprehensive overview of antimicrobial peptides, tracing their historical discovery and exploring their structural classifications, physicochemical properties, and diverse mechanisms of action. It also delves into the bioactive roles of AMPs beyond antimicrobial effects, such as anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Moreover, the potential of AMPs in clinical applications is highlighted, including their use in wound healing, topical formulations, and as adjuncts to conventional antibiotics. As research continues to advance, AMPs represent a promising frontier in the ongoing fight against infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance.