Design, expression and characterization of the hybrid antimicrobial peptide LHP7, connected by a flexible linker, against Staphylococcus and Streptococcus

► First report of a glycine rich linker GPDGSGPDESGPDGS used for LHP7. ► High-level expression of the hybrid peptide LHP7 in Pichia pastoris. ► More effective antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria especially MRSA. ► Synergism between LHP7 and ordinary antibiotics. ► Good stability in broad pH and temperature range.