Cationic antimicrobial peptides: Towards clinical applications

R. E.W. Hancock

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

150 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Cationic antimicrobial peptides are important components of the innate immune defences of all species of life. Variants of these natural molecules have a broad range of antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral and anti-endotoxic activity. Two of these cationic peptides have shown signs of efficacy in early clinical trials of oral mucositis and the sterilisation of central venous catheters, respectively and are currently proceeding through Phase III clinical trials. Thus, cationic antimicrobial peptides are currently being investigated as topical agents. In addition, the cationic protein rBPI 21 has recently completed Phase III clinical trials of parenteral use for meningococcaemia.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1723-1729
Number of pages7
JournalExpert Opinion on Investigational Drugs
Volume9
Issue number8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished or Issued - 2000
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Anti-endotoxic
  • Antibiotics
  • Antifungal
  • Antimicrobial peptides
  • Catheter- associated infections
  • Oral mucositis
  • Protegrins
  • Topical

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology
  • Pharmacology (medical)

Cite this