LL-37 GKE acetate, a peptide with 21 amino acids and the active structural domain of LL-37, inhibits lps-induced vascular nitric oxide production, is less toxic than LL-37 for hemolysis and apoptosis in human cultured smooth muscle cells, and possesses antimicrobial activity and therapeutic potential for sepsis.

LL-37 GKE acetate, a fragment of LL-37, exhibits broad-spectrum in vitro antimicrobial activity against E. coli, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and C. albicans, maintaining effectiveness in 150 mM NaCl and 99% serum. LL-37 GKE acetate also neutralizes LPS-induced nitric oxide production in rat aorta and induces neutrophil chemotaxis. Compared to full-length LL-37, GKE shows lower hemolytic and cytotoxic effects, indicating improved safety[1].