Everything listed here is Research Use Only (RUO). Not for human or animal consumption.
The sole human cathelicidin-derived antimicrobial peptide. Studies have investigated its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, immunomodulatory functions, and role in innate immune defense.
LL-37 is a 37-amino acid amphipathic, alpha-helical peptide derived from the C-terminal cleavage of the human cathelicidin precursor protein hCAP18 by proteinase 3. It is expressed by neutrophils, macrophages, epithelial cells, and other cell types at barrier surfaces. LL-37 disrupts bacterial membranes through electrostatic interaction with negatively charged phospholipids, forming transmembrane pores. Beyond direct antimicrobial killing, LL-37 modulates immune responses by promoting chemotaxis of immune cells, neutralizing lipopolysaccharide (LPS), stimulating angiogenesis and tissue repair signaling, and modulating dendritic cell differentiation. It bridges innate and adaptive immunity.
Vandamme D, et al. A comprehensive summary of LL-37, the factotum human cathelicidin peptide. Cell Immunol. 2012;280(1):22-35.
Key finding: Comprehensive review documenting LL-37's multifunctional roles in antimicrobial defense, immune modulation, tissue repair signaling, and cancer biology, establishing it as a central mediator of innate immunity.
Heilborn JD, et al. The cathelicidin anti-microbial peptide LL-37 is involved in re-epithelialization of human skin wounds and is lacking in chronic ulcer epithelium. J Invest Dermatol. 2003;120(3):379-389.
Key finding: LL-37 was found to be upregulated during acute tissue repair signaling and deficient in chronic non-healing conditions, directly demonstrating its role in re-epithelialization mechanisms.
| Type | Peptide (37 amino acids, cathelicidin) |
Research Use Only (RUO): This page summarizes published scientific research and is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. The compound described carries a Research Use Only designation and is intended for laboratory research use only. It is not intended for human or animal consumption, or for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease. Consult qualified professionals before making any health-related decisions.