Magainin 2 (Magainin II) is an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) isolated from the skin of the African clawed frog Xenopus laevis. Magainin 2 displays antibiotic activity against numerous gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Magainin 2 also is active against protozoa. Magainin 2 exerts its cytotoxicity effects by preferential interactions with anionic phospholipids abundant in bacterial membranes.