LL-37: Cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide with pleiotropic activity

LL-37 stands out among antimicrobial peptides for its remarkably diverse biological activities that extend far beyond simple pathogen killing. This comprehensive review by Fabisiak, Murawska, and Fichna in Pharmacological Reports examined the full scope of LL-37's pleiotropic activity and its implications for therapeutic development.

The authors systematically reviewed the literature on LL-37's biological functions, covering its direct antimicrobial activity, wound healing promotion, immune system modulation, and interactions with various cellular signaling pathways. This broad analysis captured the peptide's full range of biological effects.

The review confirmed LL-37's pleiotropic biological activities spanning three major therapeutic domains: antimicrobial defense against bacteria, viruses, and fungi; wound healing promotion through cell migration and proliferation; and immune modulation that balances protective immunity with inflammation control.

By establishing LL-37 as a truly versatile therapeutic peptide, this review supports its development for multiple clinical applications. The convergence of antimicrobial, wound healing, and immunomodulatory properties in a single natural peptide makes LL-37 an exceptionally attractive candidate for conditions where these biological processes intersect, such as infected wounds and inflammatory disorders.