Antimicrobial peptides and the skin and gut microbiomes

Animals are in constant contact with the microbial world. These interactions include fending off potential pathogens and also maintaining a beneficial relationship with the microbiome. An evolutionarily conserved and widespread mechanism of achieving this balance is the production and secretion of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). AMPs are short proteins produced at different sites that either kill or inhibit bacterial contact with the host. Here, we review the different AMP families that are expressed in the skin and intestine. We review their mechanisms of action and their regulation by the host. We further discuss the involvement of AMPs in human diseases and their potential use as therapeutics.