Human cathelicidin peptide LL-37 induces endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Cellular Biology
• Immunology

Background:

• Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a cellular process implicated in atherosclerosis pathogenesis.
• LL-37, an antimicrobial peptide, is found in atherosclerotic plaques, suggesting a potential role in the disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of LL-37 to induce EndMT in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (ECs).
• To elucidate the signaling pathways involved in LL-37-mediated EndMT.

Main Methods:

• Treatment of human umbilical vein ECs with LL-37.
• Assessment of EC and mesenchymal cell markers.
• Evaluation of vascular network formation and cell migration.
• Inhibition studies using Akt and NF-κB pathway inhibitors.

Main Results:

• LL-37 treatment decreased endothelial cell markers and increased mesenchymal cell markers.
• LL-37 reduced vascular network formation but enhanced cell migration.
• LL-37-induced EndMT was significantly inhibited by Akt and NF-κB pathway inhibitors.

Conclusions:

• LL-37 acts as an inducer of EndMT in human ECs.
• LL-37 likely promotes EndMT by activating the Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways.
• LL-37 may play a role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis through EndMT induction.