Magainin-2
Also known as: Magainin II, PGLa analogue, African clawed frog AMP
Overview
Magainin-2 is a 23-amino acid amphipathic alpha-helical antimicrobial peptide first isolated from the skin of the African clawed frog Xenopus laevis by Michael Zasloff in 1987. Its discovery was seminal in establishing the field of antimicrobial peptide research. Magainin-2 exhibits potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and protozoa with minimal mammalian cell toxicity, making it a primary structural template for synthetic antibiotic drug development.
Mechanism of Action
In solution, magainin-2 adopts a random coil conformation, but upon contact with bacterial membranes it undergoes a structural transition to an amphipathic alpha-helix. The helix inserts into the lipid bilayer and aggregates to form toroidal pores through a mechanism involving lipid reorganization alongside peptide monomers. This pore formation causes rapid membrane depolarization and leakage of cytoplasmic contents. The peptide's selectivity for bacterial over mammalian membranes arises from its preference for negatively charged phospholipids (phosphatidylglycerol, cardiolipin) over zwitterionic phosphatidylcholine.
Potential Benefits
- Potent broad-spectrum antibacterial activity
- Antifungal activity
- Antiprotozoal activity
- Low mammalian cytotoxicity
- Foundational template for antibiotic drug development programs
- Activity against drug-resistant bacteria
Dosage Protocols
The following reflects doses used in published research studies. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| Beginner | Research / topical only |
| Intermediate | N/A |
| Advanced | N/A |
| Cycle Duration | 2-4 weeks (research wound studies) |
Frog-derived AMP. Pexiganan (MSI-78 analog) failed FDA approval twice for diabetic foot infections.
Use our Reconstitution Calculator to determine exact syringe units for your protocol.
Routes of Administration
Topical Local action
Primary route — topical cream for infected wounds.
Read our full Routes of Administration Guide for detailed comparison of all delivery methods.
Stacking Protocols
Popular research stacks involving Magainin-2:
Explore our complete Peptide Stacking Guide for more combinations and safety considerations.
Reconstitution
| Storage | Store at room temperature, away from light and heat |
|---|
Topical/cosmetic peptide — comes pre-formulated. No reconstitution needed.
Need exact syringe measurements?
Amino Acid Sequence
Gly-Ile-Gly-Lys-Phe-Leu-His-Ser-Ala-Lys-Lys-Phe-Gly-Lys-Ala-Phe-Val-Gly-Glu-Ile-Met-Asn-Ser-NH2
Side Effects & Safety
- Hemolytic at high concentrations
- Local irritation in topical applications
Safety & Contraindications
This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide.
Pregnancy / Lactation
Bleeding Disorders
Active Skin Infection at Injection Site
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-Life | Not well characterized for this peptide; consult primary literature |
|---|---|
| Storage | Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C (long-term) or 2-8°C (short-term, under 30 days). Reconstituted: refrigerate at 2-8°C and use within 28-30 days. Protect from light. Do not freeze reconstituted solution. |
Synergistic Compounds
The following compounds have been studied alongside Magainin-2 for potential complementary or synergistic effects:
Learn More
References & Further Reading
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