Rattusin and Methods of its Use

Researchers at Oklahoma State University have identified a novel defensin-related antimicrobial peptide, with the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) in the range of 2-8 -M against a broad spectrum of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial strains, including antibiotic-resistant strains. Unlike any defensins, this novel peptide has a unique cysteine-spacing pattern and maintains antibacterial activity in the presence of physiological concentrations of NaCl and MgCl2. In addition, this peptide shows no appreciable toxicity to mammalian cells at up to 100 �M, demonstrating a strong potential in both systemic and topical antibacterial therapies.

Effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria through physical interaction and disruption of membranesEffective against antibiotic-resistant bacteriaDifficult for bacteria to develop resistant to antimicrobial peptidesEffective in the presence of physiological concentrations of salt

Treating Gram-negative and Gram-positive infections caused by drug-resistant bacteriaTreating chronic and acute infections on the skin or in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and urogenital tracts, such as cystic fibrosis and Crohns diseaseTreating acne or catheter-associated pneumonia when applied topicallyEnhancing pre-harvest food safety

A novel defensin-related antimicrobial peptide.

USA