Non-Immune Proteins Harbor Antimicrobial Agents

Molecules that could be the starting point for new, potent antibiotics are often embedded—or “encrypted”—within proteins not traditionally linked to immune functions, according to recent work by Cesar de la Fuente, PhD, the Presidential Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Microbiology, Chemistry, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Bioengineering. De la Fuente and his team broadened understanding of the immune system by identifying proteins and peptides that may be activated in response to infection and confer protection to the host.