Amphi­bian-deri­ved Tem­po­rin B ana­log for anti­mi­cro­bial con­trol: toward a novel topi­cal tre­at­ment stra­t­egy

Join us for a diverse series of talks at the Institute of Microbiology, with presentations given by speakers ranging from Master's students to professors. Everyone is warmly welcome!

Seminar of the Department of Microbiology

 

Florentine Marx-Ladurner – Associate Professor – Medical University of Innsbruck (MUI)

11.12.2025, 11:00 - Hybrid

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  • or in presence: Seminarraum Biologie - Foyer (Technikerstraße 25, Viktor-Franz-Hess Haus, Parterre).

 

Abstract

Cationic antimicrobial peptides offer broad antimicrobial activity, multifaceted modes of action, and a low propensity for resistance, positioning them as promising therapeutics. This presentation focuses on a rationally designed Temporin B (TB) analog (TB_KKG6K) with rapid, microbicidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. Mechanistic studies demonstrate concentration- and time-dependent membrane depolarization and permeabilization in S. aureus, with ultrastructural evidence of membrane disruption and lysis. In C. albicans, the peptide is internalized and compromises membrane integrity, consistent with its fungicidal activity. However, the peptide's pronounced sensitivity to cations, serum, and proteolytic degradation argues against systemic use and supports topical applicability where local exposure can be controlled.

Proof-of-principle applicability is demonstrated in two complementary models. First, in 3D reconstructed human skin, topical TB analog reduces S. aureus burden and attenuates biofilm maturation, while dampening inflammation, indicating efficacy and host-response modulation in an infection-relevant tissue context. Safety profiling in these skin models indicates that the peptide preserves outside-in barrier integrity and is non-toxic and non-irritant, supporting suitability for topical use. Second, on abiotic silicone elastomer surfaces relevant to medical device-associated infections, the TB analog inhibits C. albicans biofilm maturation and reduces extracellular matrix.

Together, these data establish the TB analog as a fast-acting antibacterial and antifungal candidate with proven efficacy and safety in human skin models and anti-biofilm activity on abiotic surfaces, aligning with the goals of topical anti-infective development.

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