Evolutionary constraints on the acquisition of antimicrobial peptide resistance in bacterial pathogens

Trends Microbiol. 2021 Dec;29(12):1058-1061. doi: 10.1016/j.tim.2021.03.007. Epub 2021 Apr 6.

Abstract

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) offer a potential solution to the antibiotic resistance crisis. Recent studies have revealed important evolutionary constraints on the evolution and horizontal spread of AMP resistance in bacteria. Here, we summarize these advances and highlight their importance for therapeutic development of AMPs.

Keywords: antibiotic resistance; antimicrobial peptide resistance; bacterial evolution.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides* / pharmacology
  • Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides* / therapeutic use
  • Antimicrobial Peptides*
  • Bacteria
  • Drug Resistance, Microbial

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides
  • Antimicrobial Peptides