Engineered Exosomes Containing Cathelicidin/LL-37 Exhibit Multiple Biological Functions

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Immunology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Exosomes are promising for diagnostics and therapeutics.
• Human innate immunity inspires novel therapeutic strategies.
• Cathelicidin/LL-37 is a key antimicrobial peptide.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer exosomes with enhanced cathelicidin/LL-37 content.
• To evaluate the therapeutic functions of engineered exosomes.
• To explore applications in infection management and wound healing.

Main Methods:

• Monocytic cells were treated with 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and VID400.
• Engineered exosomes were slowly released from electrospun nanofiber matrices.
• Exosome cathelicidin/LL-37 content and biological functions were assessed.

Main Results:

• Engineered exosomes showed significantly higher cathelicidin/LL-37 levels compared to controls.
• These exosomes demonstrated antibacterial activity.
• Enhanced endothelial cell tube formation, skin cell proliferation, and migration were observed.

Conclusions:

• Engineered exosomes loaded with cathelicidin/LL-37 represent a novel therapeutic approach.
• These exosomes hold potential for infection control, wound healing, and tissue regeneration.
• Combination therapy with other biomaterials may enhance efficacy.