Human cathelicidin LL-37 prevents bacterial biofilm formation

Future Med Chem. 2012 Aug;4(12):1587-99. doi: 10.4155/fmc.12.97.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adjuvants, Immunologic / chemistry
  • Adjuvants, Immunologic / pharmacology
  • Anti-Infective Agents / chemistry
  • Anti-Infective Agents / pharmacology
  • Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides / chemistry*
  • Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides / pharmacology
  • Biofilms / drug effects*
  • Cathelicidins
  • Gram-Negative Bacteria / drug effects
  • Gram-Negative Bacteria / physiology*
  • Gram-Positive Bacteria / drug effects
  • Gram-Positive Bacteria / physiology*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Adjuvants, Immunologic
  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides
  • Cathelicidins