European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

REVIEW OF TEN ANTIMICROBIALS FROM BACTERIAL SOURCES

*Dr. Mohammed Altahir Mohammed Amhimmid and Aiman Mustafa Ali Abulgasim

ABSTRACT

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are small natural molecules that play a crucial role in the immune response of several organisms. Many bacteria produce AMPs as part of their natural defence mechanisms against competing organisms or environmental stress. AMPs from bacterial sources have garnered significant interest due to their potent activity against a wide range of pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant strains such as Staphylococcus. aureus. These peptides are a rich source of novel antimicrobial compounds with potential therapeutic applications. This review aims to provide an update on ten AMPs produced by Gram-positive bacteria (GPB), including novel bacterial resistance mechanisms against these AMPs, particularly those produced against S. aureus. Resistance of S. aureus to AMPs is an evolving and complex phenomenon that involves diverse mechanisms. The mechanisms include active specific genes via two-component system, alterations of the bacterial cell membrane and efflux pump activation. Understanding these resistance mechanisms is crucial for developing strategies to enhance the efficacy of AMPs, design AMP derivatives, and implement combination therapies that can avoid or overcome S. aureus resistance.

Keywords: Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), Resistance mechanisms, Epifadin, and Lugdunin.