Answer:
Short amino acid chains with the ability to kill microbes are called antimicrobial peptides (AMPs).
Step-by-step explanation:
AMPs are part of the innate immune system and serve as a defense mechanism against various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They can disrupt the microbial cell membrane, inhibit protein synthesis, and have immunomodulatory properties. AMPs play a crucial role in the body's natural defense against infections and are being investigated for their potential therapeutic applications in medicine and biotechnology.