Bactericidal activity of newly synthesized antimicrobial peptides against methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus and biofilm-forming methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus

Abstract

Background: The emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria (MDRB) poses a significant global challenge for healthcare professionals. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a prominent pathogen responsible for both hospital-acquired (nosocomial) and community-acquired infections, is particularly difficult to treat. Existing treatment options, such as vancomycin, linezolid, or clindamycin, have limitations. Therefore, there is a need for innovative approaches to combat infections caused by drug-resistant organisms. Methods: In this study, we synthesized a novel ultra-short antimicrobial peptide composed of three units of tryptophan and three units of lysine. We evaluated the effectiveness of this peptide against MRSA and MRSA that forms biofilms. Results: Encouraging results demonstrated that the peptide effectively killed both MRSA and biofilm-forming MRSA, while exhibiting low toxicity to human red blood cells. Additionally, our novel peptide showed excellent synergistic effects when combined with vancomycin against MRSA. Furthermore, when combined with levofloxacin and clarithromycin, our peptide exhibited synergistic effects against biofilm-forming MRSA. Conclusions: In conclusion, this study presents a novel ultra-short antimicrobial peptide (USAMP) that holds potential as a new generation of antibiotics to combat globally prevalent drug-resistant bacteria.