Immune Modulation by Multifaceted Cationic Host Defense (antimicrobial) Peptides

Overview

Journal Nat Chem Biol

Specialties Biochemistry
Biology
Chemistry

Date 2013 Nov 16

PMID 24231617

Citations 254

Authors

Ashley L Hilchie

Kelli Wuerth

Robert E W Hancock

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Cationic host defense (antimicrobial) peptides were originally studied for their direct antimicrobial activities. They have since been found to exhibit multifaceted immunomodulatory activities, including profound anti-infective and selective anti-inflammatory properties, as well as adjuvant and wound-healing activities in animal models. These biological properties suggest that host defense peptides, and synthetic derivatives thereof, possess clinical potential beyond the treatment of antibiotic-resistant infections. In this Review, we provide an overview of the biological activities of host defense and synthetic peptides, their mechanism(s) of action and new therapeutic applications and challenges that are associated with their clinical use.

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