Stapled β-Hairpin Antimicrobial Peptides with Improved Stability and Activity against Drug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria

J Med Chem. 2023 Jul 13;66(13):8498-8509. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00140. Epub 2023 Jun 25.

Abstract

Different stapling techniques have been used recently to address the subpar performance of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in clinical trials with ample focus on α-helical AMPs. In comparison, a systematic evaluation of such strategies on β-hairpin AMPs is lacking. Herein, we report the design, synthesis, and evaluation of a library of all-hydrocarbon-stapled β-hairpin AMPs with variation in key parameters intended as potent therapeutics against drug-resistant pathogens. We observed an interesting interplay between the activity, stability, and structural strength. Single-stapled peptides with a 6-carbon staple at peptide termini such as 5(c6) displayed the most potent activity against colistin-resistant clinical isolates. Using imaging techniques, we observed translocation of 5(c6) across bacterial membranes without causing extensive damage. Overall, we have engineered novel all-hydrocarbon-stapled β-hairpin AMPs with structural and functional proficiency that can effectively combat resistant pathogens, with findings from this study a point of reference for future interests in developing novel β-hairpin AMPs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / chemistry
  • Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides* / chemistry
  • Antimicrobial Peptides*
  • Bacteria
  • Gram-Negative Bacteria
  • Hydrocarbons / chemistry
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests

Substances

  • Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides
  • Antimicrobial Peptides
  • Hydrocarbons
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents