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Abstract Antimicrobial peptides are relatively small molecules, less than 100 amino acids, which have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity. Avian antimicrobial peptides, classed as β-defensins has been identified from bloods of chicken, turkey, and ostrich; epithelial cells of chicken and turkey; and king penguin stomach contents. These peptides are active against a wide range of microorganisms including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and enveloped virus. The present paper describes molecules characteristic, antimicrobial activity, and potential application of these peptides, to provide a suggestion for research on this topic in the future.
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Received: 14 August 2006
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