Antimicrobial Peptide Polymers

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Genetically Engineered Smart Biopolymer to Combat a Broad Range of Microbial Infections Tech ID: UA18-080 Invention: This technology is a platform to develop stable protein polymers that have attached antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). This platform involves a novel approach to structurally modify, synthesize and minimize the cost of AMP polymers, specifically for use within clinical settings. Background: Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are more efficient at killing antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) microorganisms than antibiotic, antiviral or antifungal drugs. However, AMPs are quickly degraded in the bloodstream and require high dosages, which can have adverse side effects, limiting their uses in a clinical setting. To reduce degradation and the need for higher dosages, AMPs are being attached to polymers to produce AMP incorporated biomaterials such as nanoparticles, membranes and films. Unfortunately, the production of AMP polymers requires complex chemical synthesis methods, resulting in inconsistent AMPs and poor clinical efficacy. This invention addresses the current inadequacies through simplified synthetic methods with the capability to structurally modify the peptides and tethers the peptides to a polymer. This process preserves the peptides biological activity and prolongs the life of the peptides in order to make AMP therapies and treatments clinically accessible.