# The potential of antimicrobial peptides to treat oral infections and cancer

## TL;DR

This paper reviews antimicrobial peptides that can treat oral infections and cancer by targeting bacteria and cancer cells with low resistance risk.

## Contribution

The paper highlights dual-function peptides like Nal-P113 and Nisin Z for their combined antimicrobial and antitumor potential in oral health.

## Key findings

- AMPs like Nal-P113 and hCAP(109–135) show direct cytotoxic effects against bacteria and cancer cells.
- Nisin Z demonstrates both antimicrobial and antitumor activity in the oral cavity.
- Further studies are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of AMPs for commercial use.

## Abstract

Oral cancer represents a significant cause of mortality and morbidity, especially when discovered late. Microbial infections, particularly those caused by Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, play a crucial role in cancer development and prognosis, especially in the oral cavity. Unfortunately, the current pharmacological arsenal for treating infections and oral cancer has a low therapeutic spectrum and high levels of resistance. In this regard, some antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) appear to be potential therapeutic agents, as they exhibit direct cytotoxic activity against bacterial and cancer cells with a low propensity for resistance. This study aimed to review the current literature on dual-function peptide molecules with the potential to treat oral infections and cancer. Peptides such as Nal-P113, hCAP(109–135), and Nisin Z exhibit both antimicrobial and antitumor activity, making them promising therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of oral infections and cancer. However, owing to the limitations of AMPs, further in vitro and in vivo safety and efficacy studies are needed before their commercialization.