magainin ii

Magainin ii is a **cationic amphipathic antimicrobial peptide** originally isolated from the skin of the African clawed frog (*Xenopus laevis*)[1][4][5][7]. It adopts an α-helix structure in membranes, disrupting microbial cell membranes and leading to permeabilization and cell death[1][6][7]. Magainin ii demonstrates broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains, as well as antifungal and anti-protozoal effects[1][4][5]. Magainin ii can also inhibit biofilm formation[1]. Its mechanism is based on direct interaction with and disruption of both the outer and inner microbial membranes, forming pores that differ in size and impact depending on target cell type[1][7]. Magainin ii is stable in physiological salt conditions, exhibits low cytotoxicity to mammalian cells, and lacks hemolytic activity at antimicrobial concentrations[1][7]. Synthetic derivatives and analogs have been engineered to optimize antimicrobial potency or membrane disruption[5]. Magainin ii also displays limited cytotoxicity towards tumor cells at high concentrations and can be conjugated to tumor-homing peptides to enhance antitumor activity[2].

Other names

magainin 2magainin2magainin-2Mag2Mag-2Mag 2MG2MG-2MG 2