Main functions
- "1.Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Activity: LL-37 is effective against a wide range of bacteria (including drug-resistant strains), fungi, and viruses. Its primary mechanism involves disrupting pathogen membranes. It also binds and neutralizes bacterial endotoxins (such as LPS), helping to limit local infection spread.
- 2.Immunomodulation and Inflammation Control: LL-37 plays a complex dual role in the immune system. On one hand, it acts as a chemoattractant, recruiting immune cells such as neutrophils, monocytes, and T cells to sites of infection. On the other hand, it modulates the release of inflammatory cytokines, exerting either pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory effects depending on the microenvironment.
- 3.Promotes Tissue Repair and Regeneration: LL-37 shows significant potential in promoting wound healing, angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation), and bone regeneration. Studies demonstrate that it promotes keratinocyte migration to accelerate wound closure and induces mesenchymal stem cell differentiation toward osteoblasts, facilitating new bone formation.
- 4.Angiogenesis and Cardiovascular Regulation: LL-37 directly stimulates endothelial cell proliferation and tube formation, promoting angiogenesis. Additionally, it is closely associated with the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and cardiac hypertrophy.
- 5.Tissue Remodeling and Bone Metabolism Regulation: LL-37 modulates osteoblast and osteoclast activities, contributing to bone metabolic balance and offering new perspectives for osteoporosis prevention and treatment. It has also been found to influence tumor development by regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis, though its role in cancer appears complex, with both anti-tumor and pro-tumor potential reported."