Proline-Modified (RW)<i>n</i> Peptides: Enhancing the Antimicrobial Efficacy and Selectivity against Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens.

ABSTRACT: The growing threat of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria necessitates the development of novel antimicrobial agents. This study investigates the potential of proline-modified (RW)n peptides as a platform for combating MDR pathogens with minimal toxicity. We synthesized and evaluated (RW)n peptides (n = 4, 6, and 8) with and without central proline residues against five clinically relevant bacterial strains, including ESKAPE pathogens. Antimicrobial activity, cytotoxicity, and synergistic effects with conventional antibiotics were assessed. Proline incorporation significantly enhanced the peptide selectivity and broadened the spectrum of activity, particularly against Gram-negative bacteria. RW6P and RW8P demonstrated exceptional efficacy (MICs ≤ 0.25 μg/mL) against met

SUBMITTER: Sunda-Meya A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11923837 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature