Antarctic Fish Antimicrobial Peptides Active Against Bacterial and Viral Pathogens of Aquacultural Importance
Author(s)
Date Issued
May 22, 2026
Type
article
Volume
15
Issue
6
Start Page
1
End Page
19
ISSN
2079-6382
Journal
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The aquaculture industry represents a fundamental food sector.
One of the main limiting factors for this sector is related to bacterial diseases, for which
antibiotics have been widely used worldwide for decades. In recent years, a more conscious
approach to the use of antimicrobials within the framework of the One Health approach
has increased the need for alternatives capable of helping with disease management while
avoiding the onset of antimicrobial resistance phenomena. Antimicrobial peptides, which
have a broad spectrum of action against pathogens, are a promising solution. Methods: In
this work, we investigated the capability of three peptides (Trematocine, Chionodracine,
and Cnd-m3) isolated from Antarctic fish to target bacterial and viral pathogens affecting
aquaculture. Successively, we investigated their cytotoxicity versus a continuous embryonic
cell line (DLEC) derived from European sea bass and their haemolytic activity against
fish erythrocytes. Moreover, we evaluated their immunomodulatory effect. Results: Regarding
antibacterial properties, Cnd-m3 was identified as the best peptide, demonstrating
good bactericidal and bacteriostatic activity against various bacterial strains, including
Lactococcus garvieae. Concerning this bacterium, ANS permeability assays showed that
the Cnd-m3 peptide has a great ability to interact with its outer membrane, while TEM
analysis revealed that the peptide, after destabilization of the cell membrane, interacts with
nucleic structures. Considering the antiviral activity, Trematocine was effective against
two tested pathogenic enveloped viruses. Moreover, the toxicity of Trematocine and
Cnd-m3 was evaluated by investigating their cytotoxicity against a cell line derived from
Dicentrarchus labrax and haemolysis against sea bass erythrocytes. Both revealed good
selectivity towards pathogens at the lowest concentration. Finally, Cnd-m3 manifested light
in vitro immunomodulatory properties. Conclusions: Overall, these data provide a solid
basis for future studies assessing the potential applications of two of the tested peptides
in aquaculture.
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