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Review
. 2025 Jul 11.
doi: 10.1038/s41579-025-01200-y. Online ahead of print.

Antimicrobial peptides: structure, functions and translational applications

Nelson G Oliveira Júnior  1 , Camila M Souza  1   2 , Danieli F Buccini  2 , Marlon H Cardoso  3   4 , Octávio L Franco  5   6
Affiliations
Review

Antimicrobial peptides: structure, functions and translational applications

Nelson G Oliveira Júnior et al. Nat Rev Microbiol. .

Abstract

Novel solutions to combat the rapid evolution of antimicrobial resistance in human and animal pathogens are urgently required. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent promising therapeutic molecules, as they exhibit structural nuances and distinct molecular targets against pathogenic microorganisms. In this Review, we explore the multifaceted structural nature of AMPs and advanced structural conformations, discuss the distinct mechanisms of action and explore novel targets. Additionally, we discuss resistance mechanisms, cross-resistance and innovative strategies for AMP design and optimization. We argue that gaining insight into novel AMP structural arrangements, targets and design optimization is crucial for the development of innovative therapies that can be translated into clinical as well as broader applications.

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Conflict of interest statement

Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests.

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