Cell Penetrating Peptides as Potential Therapeutic Agents

Dear Colleagues,

Membranes are barriers that provide an outer boundary for cells (plasma membranes) as well as their inner compartments (organelles). Membranes control the flow of information between cells, either by recognizing signal molecules received or by sending chemical or electrical signals to other cells. Therefore, biological membranes are more than just inert barriers or covers; they play active roles in the life of the cells. Many molecules, directly or indirectly, influence cell membrane properties; among these molecules, bioactive peptides have become relevant since they have shown a wide range of activities, including antibacterial, anticancer, antivirus, antiparasitic, antifungal, and also biofilm activity. The advances in peptides have centered the attention on a family of short peptides named cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs). The most accepted mechanism of action of bioactive peptides is related to membrane destabilization and disruption. For this reason, understanding how peptides interact with biological membranes and exert their activity at the molecular level is of critical significance in the pharmacological and biological fields.

This Special Issue aims to gather contributions related to the potential therapeutic use of CPP membrane models and biophysical techniques to better understand the peptide–membrane interaction, study of the mechanism of action, and potential therapeutic applications of bioactive peptides. Submissions on the discovery of new peptides or novel activities of well-known peptides are also encouraged.

All submission types, including original research articles and comprehensive reviews, are welcome.

Dr. Marcela Manrique Moreno
Prof. Dr. Mario Suwalsky
Guest Editors

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