Antimicrobial Plant Peptides as Prototypes of New Antifungal Drugs

Dear Colleague,

In recent years, the WHO has highlighted an increase in the incidence of severe and chronic fungal infections, particularly among immunocompromised patients, as well as the growing prevalence of drug-resistant fungal strains. Most commercially available antifungal drugs are characterized by frequent adverse effects, significant drug–drug interactions, and low solubility. However, according to WHO data, only four new antifungal agents have been approved in the past decade. Plant antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are vital components of plant innate immunity, forming the first line of defense against phytopathogens. Their primary targets are fungi, which are responsible for a wide range of plant diseases. As demonstrated, plant AMPs not only act against phytopathogens but also exhibit activity against fungi that cause superficial and systemic mycoses in humans. These peptides have a broad spectrum of action or selectively inhibit the growth of specific fungi. They can target the fungal cell wall and membrane or can act on intracellular components, and are characterized by their low toxicity. Recent data also suggest that plant AMPs possess immunomodulatory properties.

The main goal of this Special Issue is to compile the latest in vitro and in vivo research to evaluate the potential of plant AMPs as novel therapeutic agents to combat fungal infections. We invite submissions of reviews, short communications, and original research focused on the structure and antifungal activity of plant AMPs, their ability to prevent fungal adhesion and biofilm formation, and their influence on immune responses and fungal immune evasion. We also welcome studies on the mechanisms of resistance development, the efficacy and safety of plant AMPs in in vitro and in vivo models, as well as the rational design of their therapeutically valuable analogs. We would be pleased to receive your contribution to this Special Issue.

Dr. Ekaterina I. Finkina
Guest Editor

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