Melittin
Melittin
26 Amino Acids · MW: 2846.5 Da
Amino Acids
26
Molecular Weight
2846.5 Da
Half-life
minutes
Research Score
4.1
Studies
88
Storage
Store lyophilized at -20°C, reconstituted at 2-8°C
What is Melittin?
Melittin is the principal antimicrobial peptide in bee venom and is highly membrane-active. It has potent antibacterial activity but also substantial cytotoxicity, which limits direct therapeutic use.
Key Benefits & Mechanisms
potent bactericidal activity
membrane disruption
research lead for drug delivery
Research Summary
Melittin shows strong activity against bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses in pre-clinical studies. Because of its broad membrane toxicity, research has focused on delivery systems and engineered analogs rather than free systemic dosing.
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