Reversible self-assembly: A key feature for a new class of autodelivering therapeutic peptides

Abstract: Effective delivery is a critical issue in the use of conventional free drugs. Studies on the structure-function relationship of a therapeutic anti body-derived candidacidal decapeptide (killer peptide, KP) revealed its ability to spontaneously and reversibly self-assemble in an organized network of fibril-like structures. This process is catalyzed by 1,3-beta-glucans. While the self-assembled state may provide protection against proteases and the slow kinetic of dissociation assures a release of the active dimeric form over time, the beta-glucan affinity is responsible for targeted delivery. Thus, KP represents a novel paradigm of targeted autodelivering drugs.