This study investigates the effects of Temporin-Rb, an antimicrobial peptide, on A549 cells’ viability and pro-inflammatory gene expression. The MTT assay revealed a dose- and time-dependent reduction in cell viability. RT-PCR analysis dem- onstrated significant changes in the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, with transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) exhibiting the most pronounced alterations (15- fold), implicating its role in mediating the peptide’s effects. The study highlights the potential of selectively targeting specific pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, like TGFβ, to modulate immune responses effectively. The differential effects of Temporin-Rb on pro-inflammatory cytokine expression were further analyzed, with TGFβ and interleukin-1 (IL-1β) showing substantial alterations. ELISA confirmed Temporin-Rb’s ability to modulate TGFβ production by A549 cells, supporting its immunomodulatory properties. These findings contribute to the understanding of Temporin-Rb’s therapeutic potential as an antimicrobial and immunomodulatory agent in various cellular models. Further research is warranted to explore its underlying mechanisms and clinical applications.

Keywords