Human cathelicidin LL-37 prevents bacterial biofilm formation.
Human pathogens often colonize their host by the formation of biofilms. These surface-attached aggregates of bacteria are characterized by a self-produced extracellular matrix, which makes them highly resistant towards antibiotic treatment. Their abilities to adhere to abiotic surfaces (e.g., catheters and other medical devices) also makes bacterial biofilm formation a challenge in modern medicine. Antimicrobial peptides have lately been introduced as a potential class of drug molecules for combating severe hospital-acquired infections. One of these peptides, human cathelicidin LL-37, has recently been demonstrated to bridge innate and adaptive host defence, in addition to facilitating a robust antibiofilm effect at sub-inhibitory concentrations. In this review we will discuss the evidence, potential and challenges for LL-37 as a candidate molecule for therapeutic use.
Roskilde University, Department of Science, Systems & Models, Roskilde, Denmark.
Andreas S
AS
Jacobsen
Håvard
H
Jenssen
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology; D023181:Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000494:pharmacology; D018441:Biofilms / Q000187:drug effects*; D006090:Gram-Negative Bacteria / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D006094:Gram-Positive Bacteria / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D054804:Cathelicidins
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D023181:Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides; D054804:Cathelicidins