A new more potent synthetic version of the LL-37 antimicrobial peptide targets enveloped viruses, bacteria and fungi

[Hip]

Joshua McClure, CEO of Maxwell Biosciences, is developing a synthetic version of the antimicrobial peptide LL-37 (human cathelicidin) which is more effective than natural LL-37.

LL-37 is a key antimicrobial peptide of the innate immune system, and is active against enveloped viruses, Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and fungi. Enveloped viruses include the herpesviruses and coronaviruses, but not the enteroviruses, which are non-enveloped.

Natural LL-37 is an unstable molecule that easily breaks apart, and is destroyed by microbial enzymes. So Maxwell Biosciences are working on a synthetic version of LL-37 that is more robust.

One ME/CFS patient on this forum moved from severe to mild using a combination of regular LL-37 peptide injections along with the BPC-157 peptide. He took 125 mcg of LL-37 daily for 6 weeks, then took a 2 week break, and then took LL-37 for another 6 weeks. This treatment also fixed his IBS.



Articles:
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Infectious disease is the primary driver of aging. It is the primary disruptor of homeostasis. As soon as we start fighting infectious disease with our drug – the first time we’re approved by the FDA for any kind of infectious disease – it will start lengthening healthspan immediately.

Biomimetic Therapeutics: Joshua McClure’s Big Idea that Might Change the World

Through my research, I found that there are key proteins present in long-term resilient populations that are not present in the vulnerable populations. One particular protein stood out — LL-37, or Human Cathelicidin Antimicrobial Peptide — and I decided there had to be a way to improve health outcomes by making and applying a synthetic, improved version of LL-37. That’s when I began discussions with bioengineers who were experts in LL-37, including my co-founder, Dr. Annelise Barron.

Biomimetic Technology: A Natural in Therapeutics Design

LL-37 is expressed everywhere in the body, especially in mucosal tissues. It serves as the first antimicrobial barrier that the innate immune system offers against all pathogens coming in through the air, food, or water.

Everyone with a depressed immune system needs anti-infectives. What if we could come up with an armored small molecule that would mimic this peptide, without its weaknesses? Many pathogens release enzymes that break down LL-37.

 

[Alvin2]

Very interesting though not sure i buy the aging angle but even leaving that out, if our condition is driven by persistent infection then this might make a real difference.
How far away is it from regulatory approval?

 

[Hip]

How far away is it from regulatory approval?

Probably many years, but you can buy regular LL-37 from peptide suppliers. I tried LL-37 a few years ago, injecting 125 mcg daily, but stopped after a week because it started to cause depression side effects.

 

[Alvin2]

Probably many years

D'oh

I tried LL-37 a few years ago, injecting 125 mcg daily, but stopped after a week because it started to cause depression side effects.

Double D'oh!

In my case i don't think there is a viral or bacterial infection driving it, though i cannot prove this.