Antimicrobial · Cationic antimicrobial peptide (cathelicidin)
Bactenecin
Also known as Bac7
A cyclic, 12-amino-acid antimicrobial peptide that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, a subject of in vitro mechanistic studies.
- Length
- 12 amino acids
- Half-life
- Not well characterised
- Mechanism
- Translocates across the bacterial membrane without causing significant lysis and then binds to ribosomes, inhibiting protein synthesis.
- Studied in
- Studied for its unique intracellular mechanism of action, targeting bacterial protein synthesis, distinct from membrane-disrupting AMPs.
About Bactenecin
Bactenecin is a cyclic antimicrobial peptide isolated from bovine neutrophils, belonging to the cathelicidin family. It is composed of 12 amino acid residues linked by a disulfide bridge between two cysteine residues. This cyclic structure confers significant stability against proteolytic degradation.
Unlike many other AMPs that primarily disrupt cell membranes, bactenecin functions via an intracellular mechanism. After crossing the bacterial membrane, it targets the bacterial ribosome, specifically interfering with the protein synthesis machinery. This alternative mode of action is a key focus of laboratory investigation.
Laboratory notes
- The disulfide bond is critical for its structure and activity; use of reducing agents like DTT should be avoided during experiments.
- Solubility is best in slightly acidic aqueous solutions; reconstitute with sterile water and verify pH if necessary.
- For quantitative analysis, its high proline content can affect certain colorimetric protein assays.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Bactenecin
What makes Bactenecin's structure unique?
It is a relatively small peptide cyclized by a disulfide bond, which contributes to its stability and distinct mechanism.
How does its mechanism differ from other AMPs?
It primarily acts intracellularly by inhibiting bacterial ribosome function, rather than by forming pores in the cell membrane.
What is the origin of this peptide?
Bactenecin is an endogenous peptide found in the large granules of bovine neutrophils.
Is Bactenecin for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
All products are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, not a medicine, not for diagnosing, treating or preventing any condition.