Synthetic peptides with bactericidal activity and endotoxin neutralizing activity for gram negative bacteria and methods for their use

摘要

The invention provides biologically active peptides derived from or corresponding to regions of a bactericidal permeability increasing factor (B/PI). The peptides are about 10 to 100 amino acids long and have bactericidal and/or endotoxin neutralizing activity. The peptides can be prepared by automated DNA synthesis or by recombinant DNA methods. The peptides are useful in methods to treat and prevent bacterial infection in the body and on surfaces. The peptides are also useful to treat endotoxin shock.