Host Defence Peptide LL-37 Induces IL-6 Expression in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells by Activation of the NF-κB Signaling Pathway

LL-37, the only member of the cathelicidin family of cationic host defence peptides in humans, has been shown to mediate multiple immunomodulatory effects and as such is thought to be an important component of innate immune responses. A growing body of evidence indicates that LL-37 affects lung mucosal responses to pathogens through altered regulation of cell migration, proliferation, wound healing and cell apoptosis. These functions are …