Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), also known as host defense peptides, are short, positively charged peptides found in a wide variety of organisms, including humans and bacteria. They play a critical role in innate immunity by directly killing microbial pathogens or modulating the host's immune response. With the increasing resistance to conventional antibiotics, there is a growing interest in AMPs as potential therapeutic agents. AMPs are being evaluated for their ability to treat infections, modulate the immune system, promote wound healing, and prevent post-surgical adhesions. AMPs are classified based on their secondary structure into α-helical, β-sheet, and extended/random-coil peptides. They are produced through ribosomal or non-ribosomal synthesis and are found in various biological systems. Their mechanism of action involves interaction with microbial membranes, leading to membrane disruption and intracellular target engagement. AMPs can also have immunomodulatory effects, influencing inflammation and immune cell function. Despite their potential, the development of AMPs for clinical use faces several challenges, including their low metabolic stability, difficulty in formulation, and the need for effective delivery systems. Innovative formulation strategies, such as the use of nanocarriers, are being explored to enhance the stability, safety, and efficacy of AMPs. These strategies allow for targeted delivery and controlled release, reducing side effects and improving therapeutic outcomes. Several AMPs are currently in clinical trials for various therapeutic applications, including the treatment of bacterial infections, fungal infections, and inflammatory conditions. Examples include pexiganan, omiganan, and LTX-109, which are being tested for their antimicrobial properties. Additionally, AMPs like LL-37 are being evaluated for their role in wound healing and immune modulation. The development of AMPs as therapeutic agents is promising, but challenges remain in translating nonclinical candidates into successful clinical products. However, recent advances in understanding their mechanisms of action, resistance patterns, and formulation strategies are expected to accelerate the development of next-generation AMP-based therapies. With ongoing research and clinical trials, AMPs may offer new and effective treatments for a variety of infectious and inflammatory diseases.Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), also known as host defense peptides, are short, positively charged peptides found in a wide variety of organisms, including humans and bacteria. They play a critical role in innate immunity by directly killing microbial pathogens or modulating the host's immune response. With the increasing resistance to conventional antibiotics, there is a growing interest in AMPs as potential therapeutic agents. AMPs are being evaluated for their ability to treat infections, modulate the immune system, promote wound healing, and prevent post-surgical adhesions. AMPs are classified based on their secondary structure into α-helical, β-sheet, and extended/random-coil peptides. They are produced through ribosomal or non-ribosomal synthesis and are found in various biological systems. Their mechanism of action involves interaction with microbial membranes, leading to membrane disruption and intracellular target engagement. AMPs can also have immunomodulatory effects, influencing inflammation and immune cell function. Despite their potential, the development of AMPs for clinical use faces several challenges, including their low metabolic stability, difficulty in formulation, and the need for effective delivery systems. Innovative formulation strategies, such as the use of nanocarriers, are being explored to enhance the stability, safety, and efficacy of AMPs. These strategies allow for targeted delivery and controlled release, reducing side effects and improving therapeutic outcomes. Several AMPs are currently in clinical trials for various therapeutic applications, including the treatment of bacterial infections, fungal infections, and inflammatory conditions. Examples include pexiganan, omiganan, and LTX-109, which are being tested for their antimicrobial properties. Additionally, AMPs like LL-37 are being evaluated for their role in wound healing and immune modulation. The development of AMPs as therapeutic agents is promising, but challenges remain in translating nonclinical candidates into successful clinical products. However, recent advances in understanding their mechanisms of action, resistance patterns, and formulation strategies are expected to accelerate the development of next-generation AMP-based therapies. With ongoing research and clinical trials, AMPs may offer new and effective treatments for a variety of infectious and inflammatory diseases.