Abstract
Several examples of highly modified antimicrobial peptides have been described. While many such peptides are non-ribosomally synthesized, ribosomally synthesized equivalents are being discovered with increased frequency. Of the latter group, the lantibiotics continue to attract most attention. In the present review, we discuss the implementation of in vivo and in vitro engineering systems to alter, and even enhance, the antimicrobial activity, antibacterial spectrum and physico-chemical properties, including heat stability, solubility, diffusion and protease resistance, of these compounds. Additionally, we discuss the potential applications of these lantibiotics for use as therapeutics.
Highlights
Bioengineering Lantibiotics for Therapeutic SuccessSeveral examples of highly modified antimicrobial peptides have been described
Given that antibiotic resistance has reached a crisis point, novel compounds and innovative methods are urgently required to arrest the spread and development of drug-resistant infections in both the nosocomial and community environments
Lantibiotics possess many of the attributes essential for the treatment of infections caused by multi-drug resistant bacteria and their potential for use as alternatives to traditional antibiotic therapies has been mooted for decades
Summary
Several examples of highly modified antimicrobial peptides have been described. While many such peptides are non-ribosomally synthesized, ribosomally synthesized equivalents are being discovered with increased frequency. Of the latter group, the lantibiotics continue to attract most attention. We discuss the implementation of in vivo and in vitro engineering systems to alter, and even enhance, the antimicrobial activity, antibacterial spectrum and physico-chemical properties, including heat stability, solubility, diffusion and protease resistance, of these compounds. We discuss the potential applications of these lantibiotics for use as therapeutics. Reviewed by: Dimitris Tsaltas, Cyprus University of Technology, Cyprus Shuji Tani, Osaka Prefecture University, Japan.
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