Mastoparan
high riskAlso: Mastoparan X · Mast cell activating peptide
Mastoparan is a tetradecapeptide from wasp venom known for mast cell degranulation, antimicrobial activity, and membrane disruption. Research interest for its mechanism of action in membrane biology. Limited therapeutic application. Primarily a research tool and drug design template.
Reported Benefits
Antimicrobial (in vitro)
Potent membrane disruption in vitro; not translatable to safe therapeutic use without modification.
Mechanism of Action
Amphipathic alpha-helical peptide; inserts into lipid bilayers; activates G proteins (Gi/Go); causes mast cell degranulation; disrupts bacterial membranes similar to defensins.
Research Tool, Not Therapeutic
Mastoparan is valuable as a pharmacological tool for studying G protein activation and membrane biology, and as a structural template for designing less toxic antimicrobial peptides. Direct therapeutic use carries unacceptable risk of mast cell degranulation and systemic inflammation.
Regulatory Status
Research OnlySafety Profile
Side Effects
- •Mast cell degranulation (histamine release)
- •Systemic inflammation
- •Hemolysis at high doses
Contraindications
- •Allergy/anaphylaxis risk
- •Any systemic exposure is high-risk
Primary Uses
Related Peptides
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