Antimicrobial Peptides in Tuberculosis: Insights into the Immunomodulatory Mechanisms

Abstract

Tuberculosis is a highly contagious airborne disease that remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. In the era of an increasing rate of drug-resistant strains and other shortcomings of current anti-TB therapies, we promptly need new, effective treatments to combat tuberculosis. Antimicrobial peptides have emerged as promising candidates, offering a novel approach to tackling tuberculosis, particularly drug-resistant strains. Antimicrobial peptides have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and the ability to modulate host immune responses. Their unique mechanism of disrupting microbial membranes reduces the likelihood of resistance development. Additionally, antimicrobial peptides can enhance immune function by recruiting immune cells, promoting phagocytosis, and modulating innate and adaptive immune responses. These properties make antimicrobial peptides particularly effective in managing infections like tuberculosis while the generation of drug-resistant and excessive inflammation, a critical consideration in tuberculosis treatment.