Antimicrobial Peptides
7 compounds in this family, each with its recorded mechanism, routes of administration, safety notes and references to published literature.
- IsegananIseganan (IB‑367) is a synthetic antimicrobial peptide derived from the protegrin family. It has been investigated in research settings for preventing oral mucositis in patients receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy, and for reducing ventilator‑associated pneumonia (VAP) through oral decontamination. The compound never achieved regulatory approval and has been withdrawn from development.
- LTX-109LTX-109 is a synthetic, amphiphilic peptidomimetic under investigation for topical and intranasal use. It is being studied primarily as a rapid, bactericidal agent to eradicate Staphylococcus aureus (both methicillin‑sensitive and methicillin‑resistant) from the nasal cavity and to treat superficial skin infections such as impetigo. Early clinical work also suggests activity against enveloped respiratory viruses.
- Nisin ZNisin Z is a naturally occurring lantibiotic peptide produced by Lactococcus lactis. It belongs to the antimicrobial peptide family and is used primarily in research settings. The molecule exhibits potent activity against Gram‑positive bacteria and has been investigated for veterinary applications such as treating bovine mastitis, as well as for potential oral health and anticancer uses in laboratory studies.
- OmigananOmiganan is an investigational, cationic antimicrobial peptide derived from indolicidin. It is formulated for topical use and has been explored for acne, nasal decolonisation of Staphylococcus aureus, and atopic dermatitis. Early studies suggest it can modulate skin microbiota and exhibit antimicrobial activity, but its clinical benefit remains uncertain.
- P-113DP-113D is a synthetic 12‑amino‑acid antimicrobial peptide that is the D‑amino‑acid mirror image of the histatin‑5 fragment P‑113. It displays broad‑spectrum activity against Candida species and bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, retains potency in low‑ionic‑strength media, cystic‑fibrosis sputum, and in animal models of sepsis and gingivitis. The D‑configuration makes the peptide resistant to proteolysis, supporting its investigation for oral, topical, intravenous and inhaled use in conditions like oral candidiasis, chronic lung infection in cystic fibrosis, and periodontal disease.
- PexigananPexiganan (also called MSI‑78 or pexiganan acetate) is a synthetic 22‑amino‑acid antimicrobial peptide designed as an analogue of the frog‑derived magainin 2. It is being investigated as a topical cream for the treatment of mildly infected diabetic foot ulcers, where it aims to eradicate bacterial pathogens and promote wound healing.
- RopocamptideRopocamptide (also known as CLS001, MBI 226, Omiganan) is an investigational synthetic antimicrobial peptide that has shown in vitro activity against multidrug‑resistant bacteria and can act synergistically with certain antibiotics. The same designation is used for an iPSC‑derived corneal endothelial cell product (CLS001) investigated for topical transplantation to treat bullous keratopathy. Both applications are still experimental and are administered locally, either as a topical formulation or as a surgical cell graft.