A comprehensive review of classification, mechanisms, application and future prospects for antimicrobial peptides

Abstract Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent a versatile and innovative class of biomolecules with unique mechanisms of action, including membrane disruption, immunomodulation, and multi-target synergy, positioning them as promising alternatives to conventional antibiotics in combating drug-resistant pathogens. Their broad-spectrum activity and low resistance development have enabled transformative applications across medicine, agriculture, and food industries. In healthcare, AMPs show potential in treating multidrug-resistant infections and eradicating biofilms, while their role as natural preservatives extends food shelf life by targeting spoilage microorganisms. Agricultural advancements include transgenic crops expressing AMPs for disease resistance and livestock feed additives enhancing immune responses. Emerging technologies such as AI-driven peptide design, nanotechnology-based delivery systems, and CRISPR-engineered production platforms are addressing challenges in stability, scalability, and targeted action. Despite these strides, hurdles remain in large-scale synthesis, cost-effectiveness, and clinical translation. Collaborative efforts integrating computational biology, material science, and regulatory frameworks will be pivotal in harnessing AMPs’ full potential, offering sustainable solutions to global health crises, food security challenges, and antimicrobial resistance in the post-antibiotic era.