discoglossins

Discoglossins are a group of peptides found in the skin secretions of certain frogs. These peptides are part of the innate immune system of these amphibians, acting as a defense mechanism against pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The name "discoglossins" comes from the family Discoglossidae, a group of frogs where these peptides were first discovered and extensively studied.

These peptides typically exhibit antimicrobial activity. Their mechanism of action often involves disrupting the cell membranes of microbial invaders, leading to cell death. Some discoglossins also possess other biological activities, including the ability to modulate inflammatory responses or interact with specific receptors in host tissues. Research into discoglossins is ongoing, with a focus on understanding their precise structures, modes of action, and potential applications in medicine. Their antimicrobial properties make them candidates for the development of new antibiotics, particularly in an era of increasing antibiotic resistance. The diversity of discoglossins across different frog species suggests a co-evolutionary relationship between frogs and their associated microbial communities.