Aberdeen: Novel Antimicrobial Peptide

Licensing opportunity

Researchers at Aberdeen University in Scotland have discovered a novel antimicrobial peptide from an arthropod. The peptide has no homology with other common families of antimicrobial peptides.

The peptide is produced as a GPI-anchored peptide, however its activity as a soluble recombinant protein has been demonstrated. The novel agent shows broad spectrum and bactericidal activity against both gram negative and gram positive bacteria, including clinical isolates.

The peptide appears to have a mechanism of action distinct from pore formation since it enters and accumulates inside bacteria, and binds DNA in vitro. It is not cytotoxic against mammalian cells.

A patent application has been filed.

For more information, visit the project’s page at: http://www.university-technology.com/details/a-novel-antimicrobial-peptide