Aurein

Aurein is a class of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) originally isolated from the skin secretions of the southern bell frog, Litoria aurea. These peptides are characterized by their amphipathic α-helical structure, which allows them to interact with and disrupt the lipid membranes of microorganisms, leading to cell death.

Aureins are typically short, consisting of around 13-16 amino acids. They exhibit broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against a range of bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Their mechanism of action primarily involves insertion into the microbial membrane, forming pores or disrupting the membrane structure, leading to leakage of cellular contents and subsequent cell lysis.

Several aurein variants have been identified, each with subtle differences in their amino acid sequences. These variations can impact their antimicrobial potency, selectivity, and overall effectiveness. Research into aureins focuses on understanding their structure-activity relationships, improving their stability and bioavailability, and exploring their potential applications as novel therapeutic agents against drug-resistant pathogens.

While aureins demonstrate promising antimicrobial properties in vitro, further research is necessary to evaluate their safety and efficacy in in vivo models and ultimately, in clinical trials. Concerns regarding potential toxicity and susceptibility to degradation in biological environments remain important considerations for their development as viable antimicrobial drugs.