Exploring Antimicrobial Properties of Animal Toxins

Dear Colleagues,

In the search for novel and potent antimicrobial agents, researchers have increasingly turned their attention to the intriguing world of animal toxins. These potent substances, often associated with venomous creatures, have evolved as powerful defensive mechanisms to immobilize or kill prey and deter potential predators. While their toxic nature can be lethal, recent scientific investigations have uncovered a hidden potential—the ability to combat infectious microorganisms. The exploration of antimicrobial properties in animal toxins opens new avenues in the fight against drug-resistant bacteria and others emerging infectious diseases.

Venomous animals, such as snakes, scorpions, spiders, cone snails, and frogs, have evolved a vast array of toxins that are highly specific to their biological targets. Many of these toxins have the capacity to disrupt essential cellular processes, leading to paralysis, hemolysis, and even death in their prey. Scientists have identified various components in these toxins, including peptides and proteins, which exhibit remarkable activity against pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

The exploration of antimicrobial properties in animal toxins represents a captivating avenue of research. By harnessing the power of nature's own defense mechanisms, scientists are uncovering new and innovative solutions to combat infectious microorganisms.

For this Special Issue, we extend a cordial invitation to contribute to the advancement of our understanding regarding the remarkable potential of toxins as potent antimicrobial agents and their groundbreaking applications in the fight against infectious microorganisms.

Dr. Isadora Sousa De Oliveira
Dr. Felipe Cerni
Prof. Dr. Manuela B. Pucca
Guest Editors

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• animal venoms
• antimicrobial peptides (AMPs)
• drug-resistant pathogens
• infectious diseases