Assessment of Antimicrobial Activity of LL-37 Peptide Against Periapical Pathogens: A Cross-Sectional Study

Reinfection in the root canal and periradicular area due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance and/or multidrug-resistant strains of mixed colonization of multispecies periapical endodontic is the main reason for endodontic treatment failures. This has imposed a serious public health concern, contributing to decreased clinical efficiency and poor treatment outcomes. To combat these issues, "antimicrobial peptides are considered as potential alternatives and a promising agent" in endodontics.

To evaluate and compare the antimicrobial efficiency of LL-37 peptide against periapical endodontic pathogens (Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus salivarius, and Actinomyces naeslundii).

A multispecies biofilm of S. mutans, L. salivarius, and Actinomyces naeslundii was created on 100 hydroxyapatite disks samples (n = 100). Sixty samples (n = 60) were allocated for the peptide group and 20 samples each (n = 20) for the control group treated with disinfecting solution (sodium hypochlorite and normal saline). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and colony-forming units (CFUs) were assessed.

LL-37 peptides showed statistically significant correlation w.r.t CFUs and antimicrobial activity (P < 0.01).

LL-37 peptides were highly effective against periapical endodontic pathogens and hence could be used as a potential therapeutic agent in the future for endodontics.