Cathelicidin antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) are a family of peptides that play a crucial role in the innate immune system of many organisms. The only human cathelicidin, known as LL-37, is derived from the precursor protein hCAP-18. This peptide is known for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and its ability to modulate immune responses .
The discovery of cathelicidins dates back to the 1980s when they were first isolated from bovine neutrophils. Human cathelicidin, hCAP-18, was later identified in 1995 from neutrophils . The active form, LL-37, consists of 37 amino acids and is characterized by a net positive charge and amphiphilic properties, which allow it to interact with and disrupt microbial membranes .
Recombinant production of LL-37 has been explored to meet the demand for this peptide in research and potential therapeutic applications. One method involves expressing the peptide in Escherichia coli using a fusion protein system. This approach has shown promise in producing high yields of the peptide, although challenges remain in ensuring the antimicrobial activity of the recombinant product .
LL-37 exerts its antimicrobial effects through several mechanisms:
The therapeutic potential of LL-37 is significant, particularly in the treatment of infections caused by multi-drug resistant bacteria. Its ability to disrupt biofilms and promote wound healing makes it a promising candidate for treating chronic wounds and other infections . Additionally, LL-37 has been studied for its potential role in cancer therapy due to its immunomodulatory effects .
Despite its potential, several challenges need to be addressed to fully harness the therapeutic benefits of LL-37:
Future research is focused on overcoming these challenges and exploring new applications for LL-37 in various fields of medicine.