Tyrothricin--An underrated agent for the treatment of bacterial skin infections and superficial wounds?

Pharmazie. 2016 Jun;71(6):299-305.

Abstract

The antimicrobial agent tyrothricin is a representative of the group of antimicrobial peptides (AMP). It is produced by Bacillus brevis and consists of tyrocidines and gramicidins. The compound mixture shows activity against bacteria, fungi and some viruses. A very interesting feature of AMPs is the fact, that even in vitro it is almost impossible to induce resistances. Therefore, this class of molecules is discussed as one group that could serve as next generation antibiotics and overcome the increasing problem of bacterial resistances. In daily practice, the application of tyrothricin containing formulations is relatively limited: It is used in sore throat medications and in agents for the healing of infected superficial and small-area wounds. However, due to the broad spectrum antimicrobial activity and the low risk of resistance development it is worth to consider further fields of application.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antifungal Agents / pharmacology
  • Antiviral Agents / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Skin Diseases, Infectious / drug therapy*
  • Skin Diseases, Infectious / microbiology
  • Structure-Activity Relationship
  • Tyrothricin / adverse effects
  • Tyrothricin / pharmacology
  • Tyrothricin / therapeutic use*
  • Wound Infection / drug therapy*
  • Wound Infection / microbiology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Antifungal Agents
  • Antiviral Agents
  • Tyrothricin