Defensins
Alpha/beta defensins
Class of endogenous antimicrobial peptides. No FDA-approved drug product.
Also known as · LL-37 family
Cathelicidins
Class of endogenous antimicrobial peptides. No FDA-approved drug product.
What it is
Cathelicidins are a family of antimicrobial peptides characterized by a conserved cathelin pro-domain that is cleaved to release the active antimicrobial fragment. Humans have a single cathelicidin (hCAP-18) that is processed to release LL-37, the only active human cathelicidin peptide. No cathelicidin peptide is FDA-approved for any use in the United States.
This entry serves as a reference for the broader cathelicidin family. For more on the human cathelicidin, see the LL-37 entry.
Mechanism of action
Proposed mechanisms come from laboratory and animal research. Cathelicidins have been reported to act through mechanisms similar to other antimicrobial peptides: membrane disruption, activity against biofilms in laboratory models, and immunomodulation. The reported activity profile varies by species and specific cathelicidin.
Clinical evidence
The cathelicidin family has been studied mainly in laboratory and animal research. Most human research relates to LL-37 specifically — see the LL-37 entry. Well-controlled human trials establishing effectiveness and safety are lacking.
Why we don’t prescribe cathelicidins at The Tide
The Tide does not prescribe cathelicidin peptides. Non-human cathelicidins are research compounds without regulated pharmacy availability or established clinical pathways.
Where to learn more
See the LL-37 entry for research information about LL-37.
Related peptides
From the same category.
LL-37
Cathelicidin
The only known human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide. Not FDA-approved; investigational.