Antimicrobial · Antimicrobial Peptide (AMP)
Bombinin
Bombinin is a 24-amino acid antimicrobial peptide from the European fire-bellied toad, used to study bacterial membrane disruption mechanisms.
- Length
- 24 amino acids
- Half-life
- Not well characterised
- Mechanism
- Bombinin is a cationic peptide that permeabilizes bacterial membranes by forming alpha-helical structures that insert into and disrupt the lipid bilayer.
- Studied in
- It is employed in microbiological and biophysical studies to understand the structure-activity relationships of pore-forming antimicrobial peptides.
About Bombinin
Bombinin is a 24-amino acid antimicrobial peptide isolated from the skin of the European fire-bellied toad, Bombina bombina. Structurally, it is a linear, cationic peptide that lacks cysteine residues and post-translational modifications. Upon contact with membranes, it folds into an amphipathic α-helix, a common feature of many membrane-active host defense peptides.
Its antimicrobial action is attributed to its ability to selectively target and disrupt the membranes of microorganisms. Researchers utilize Bombinin to investigate the physical chemistry of peptide-membrane interactions, often using model lipid systems like vesicles and supported lipid bilayers. Microbiological assays, such as determining minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC), are used to characterize its spectrum of activity against various bacterial strains.
Laboratory notes
- Bombinin's lytic activity can be tested against both bacterial cells and simple model systems like red blood cells (hemolysis assay) to assess its cell selectivity.
- Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy is often used to confirm the peptide's conformational change from a random coil in solution to an α-helix in membrane-mimicking environments.
- Like other AMPs, its activity can be inhibited by high divalent cation concentrations (e.g., Mg2+, Ca2+), which should be considered when designing buffer systems.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Bombinin
What is the natural source of Bombinin?
It was originally isolated from the skin secretions of the European fire-bellied toad, Bombina bombina. The research product is a synthetic equivalent.
What is the proposed mechanism of action for Bombinin?
Bombinin is thought to form an α-helix that inserts into bacterial membranes, creating pores or defects that lead to cell death.
Why is Bombinin sold for research use only?
Regena products, including Bombinin, are intended exclusively for in-vitro laboratory research and are not for human or animal consumption or administration.
Is Bombinin 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.