Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs) Dermcidin, LL-37, and Psoriasin Exhibit Dual Roles in Skin Cancer Pathogenesis

Effective management of skin cancer, particularly cutaneous malignancies, requires a deep understanding of underlying biological mechanisms. While antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are known for innate defense and microbiome regulation, their specific contributions to skin tumorigenesis have been less comprehensively explored. Current standard-of-care treatments for skin cancer often face challenges, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies. This review addresses the gap in understanding the complex, often dual, pro- and anti-tumor properties of various AMPs, paving the way for their potential application in cutaneous oncology.

This comprehensive review synthesized existing literature on cutaneous antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and their roles in skin cancer research and clinical developments. The authors discussed specific AMPs, including dermcidin, psoriasin (S100A7), human cathelicidin (LL-37), RNase-7, and the human β-defensins. The review focused on how these peptides influence skin tumorigenesis through various mechanisms, including microbiome regulation, innate immune pathways, and chronic inflammation. It also explored current clinical developments, highlighting AMP-derived therapies like LL-37 and LTX-315 for their potential in cutaneous oncology.

The review elucidated the multifaceted roles of cutaneous antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in skin cancer, identifying both pro- and anti-tumor properties. Specific AMPs like dermcidin, psoriasin (S100A7), human cathelicidin (LL-37), RNase-7, and human β-defensins were found to influence tumorigenesis. These peptides exert their effects through diverse mechanisms, including modulation of the skin microbiome, direct involvement in innate immune pathways, and regulation of chronic inflammation. The authors noted that while mechanistic details are still under scrutiny, several AMP-derived therapies are already in development.

LL-37 and LTX-315 are highlighted as promising AMP-derived therapies with potential applications in cutaneous oncology, underscoring the translational relevance of these findings.