A tryptophan-rich 12-residue analog of indolicidin studied as a topical antiseptic gel.
Also known as: MBI 226 · MX-226 · CLS001
Part of the Foundational & therapeutic peptides cluster
Overview
Omiganan is a synthetic 12-amino-acid cationic peptide analog of indolicidin, a host-defense peptide from bovine neutrophils. It depolarizes bacterial membranes and has broad activity against bacteria and yeasts, and it has been investigated as a topical gel for catheter-site antisepsis and inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea and atopic dermatitis. This page is educational and not medical advice.
Source & context
Biological / chemical source: Synthetic analog of indolicidin (bovine neutrophil host-defense peptide)
Primary research or clinical context: Investigational topical agent studied for skin infections and inflammatory skin conditions
Sequence and action
Omiganan (ILRWPWWPWRRK, formulated as the pentahydrochloride) is rich in tryptophan and arginine, favoring insertion at the membrane interface. Against Staphylococcus aureus it depolarizes the cytoplasmic membrane, causing rapid, concentration-dependent killing of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and Candida species.
Clinical investigation
Topical omiganan progressed through trials for prevention of catheter-associated infections and was later explored for rosacea, acne and atopic dermatitis, where it can shift the skin microbiome. It has not received marketing approval and is discussed here for educational context only.
Sequence
One-letter sequence commonly cited for Omiganan (educational; isoforms and modifications may differ):
ILRWPWWPWRRK
Residues plotted ~100° apart around an α-helix — clustering of one color reveals an amphipathic face.
FAQ about Omiganan
What is Omiganan?+
Omiganan is a synthetic 12-amino-acid cationic peptide analog of indolicidin, a host-defense peptide from bovine neutrophils. It depolarizes bacterial membranes and has broad activity against bacteria and yeasts, and it has been investigated as a topical gel for catheter-site antisepsis and inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea and atopic dermatitis. This page is educational and not medical advice.
Is Omiganan an approved medicine?+
Omiganan is discussed here as a research / educational topic. Investigational topical agent studied for skin infections and inflammatory skin conditions. This is not medical advice.
What is the typical length of Omiganan?+
Omiganan is commonly described as approximately 12 amino acids (Synthetic antimicrobial peptide (indolicidin analog)).