CATHPb1 peptide

Python Cathelicidin CATHPb1 has protective effect in a broad range of in vivo infection models, especially MRSA and VRSA mice model, by local and systemic administration. CATHPb1 was not only directly antimicrobial and anti-biofilm in vitro, but also immunomodulatory in vivo. Theprotection was all effective through different administration routes, but was blocked by in vivo depletion of monocyte/macrophages or neutrophils. CATHPb1 can rapidly and massively modulate macrophages/monocytes and neutrophils trafficking to the infection site, and potentiate their bactericidal functions. Meanwhile, CATHPb1 remarkably augmented neutrophil-mediated bacteria killing by facilitating neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation and preventing its degradation. Acting through MAPKs and NF-κB pathways, CATHPb1 selectively enhanced the levels of chemokines while reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines without undesirable toxicities.