Researchers identified a short-sized antimicrobial peptide (AMP), (21 aminoacids), named Esc(1-21), from frog skin which rapidly kills planktonic P. aeruginosa cells and eradicates its biofilm. Esc(1-21) demonstrated also the capability to prolong survival of murine models of sepsis or P. aeruginosa lung infection, upon intravenous or intratracheal administration, respectively. In parallel, they designed a derivative of Esc(1-21), Esc(1-21)c, with a stronger ability in inhibiting P. aeruginosa biofilm formation. The aim of the project is to develop new effective and economically feasible antimicrobial agents, based on Esc(1-21) derived peptides, for treatment of P. aeruginosa lung infections, upon airway administration; and to test them in murine models so that to find out efficacy and safety profiles and optimal dosage of administration.