HOW ANTIBIOTIC PEPTIDES INTERACT WITH MICROORGANISMS

Abstract

Antibiotic peptides are the main line of defense of the human innate immunity system and are potentially active against a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms, including gram positive and gram negative bacteria, mycobacteria, spirochetes, fungi, viruses and protozoa. The review highlights the mechanisms of interaction of antibiotic peptides with cell membranes and intracellular targets of microorganisms. Briefly discussed are the methods of interaction of these substances with viruses and toxins, as well as the mechanisms of resistance of microorganisms to antibiotic peptides.