Antimicrobial · Cationic antimicrobial peptide
Cecropin B
A 35-amino-acid cationic peptide from the Cecropia moth, studied for its membrane-disrupting antimicrobial properties in laboratory models.
- Length
- 35 amino acids
- Half-life
- Not well characterised
- Mechanism
- Forms pores in bacterial cell membranes by adopting an amphipathic alpha-helical structure, leading to leakage of cytoplasmic contents and cell death.
- Studied in
- Investigated in vitro for its activity against a broad spectrum of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.
About Cecropin B
Cecropin B is a well-characterised antimicrobial peptide originally isolated from the hemolymph of the giant silk moth, Hyalophora cecropia. It is a linear, 35-residue peptide that adopts an amphipathic alpha-helical structure. This structural characteristic is central to its mode of action against microbial membranes.
The peptide's primary mechanism involves electrostatic interaction with the negatively charged lipids of bacterial membranes, followed by insertion and formation of ion channels or pores. This disruption of membrane integrity leads to rapid cell lysis. Its activity is a subject of research in various in vitro settings to understand its spectrum and potency.
Laboratory notes
- Reconstitute in sterile, nuclease-free water as it is highly cationic and may interact with charged surfaces.
- In vitro activity can be sensitive to salt concentrations, which may screen the peptide's electrostatic interactions.
- Store stock solutions at -20°C or below; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles to maintain peptide integrity.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Cecropin B
What is the primary source of Cecropin B?
Cecropin B was first identified in the hemolymph of the giant silk moth, Hyalophora cecropia, as part of its innate immune system.
How does its structure relate to its function?
Its amphipathic alpha-helical structure allows it to interact with and disrupt the lipid bilayers of bacterial cell membranes.
Is its activity limited to certain types of bacteria?
Cecropin B is known for its broad-spectrum activity, which is studied in vitro against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.
Is Cecropin B 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.