NEW CATIONIC PEPTIDES OF THE DERMASEPTIN FAMILY ISOLATED FROM THE SKIN SECRETION OF PHYLLOMEDUSA HYPOCHONDRIALIS

摘要

This invention is related to anti-microbial peptides having the same amino acid sequence and at least the same anti-microbial activity as those of Phylloseptins which are isolated from the skin of Phyllomedusa hypochondrialis. The peptides did not have any structural homology with another known peptide. The 19-residue anti-microbial peptides are cationic a nd based on their primary structure, all peptides can be fitted to an amphiphil ic a-helix. The peptide masses analyzed by mass spectrometry were in the range of 1.9 to 2.0 kDa.These peptides can be used in compositions for retarding plan t pathogens and for protecting plants from pathogens, comprising at least one antibiotic peptide and an agriculturally acceptable carrier. Another embodiment of the invention is to provide therapeutic compositions suitable for human, veterinary, or pharmaceutical use, comprising one or more of the peptides released in this invention and an adequate pharmacological carrier.