What is LL-37?
LL-37 is the only human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, named for its 37 amino acid sequence beginning with two leucine residues. This naturally occurring peptide plays a crucial role in innate immunity by providing broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Beyond its antimicrobial properties, LL-37 promotes wound healing, tissue regeneration, and immune system modulation.
Natural Host Defense
The only human cathelicidin peptide, naturally produced by immune cells to provide first-line defense against pathogens.
Multifunctional Activity
Combines antimicrobial action with wound healing, tissue regeneration, and immune system modulation.
Research and Clinical Benefits
LL-37 demonstrates broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity through multiple mechanisms, making it effective against various pathogens.
- ✓ Bacterial Activity: Effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains.
- ✓ Viral Defense: Demonstrates activity against various viral pathogens through membrane disruption and immune modulation.
- ✓ Fungal Control: Antifungal properties against various fungal pathogens and biofilm formation.
LL-37 promotes wound healing through multiple mechanisms involving cell migration, angiogenesis, and tissue regeneration.
- ✓ Cell Migration: Promotes keratinocyte and fibroblast migration to wound sites for tissue repair.
- ✓ Angiogenesis: Stimulates blood vessel formation to support tissue regeneration and healing.
- ✓ Collagen Production: Enhances collagen synthesis for proper wound closure and tissue strength.
As a naturally occurring human peptide, LL-37 has demonstrated good safety profiles in research settings, though clinical applications require supervision.
- ! Natural Origin: Endogenous human peptide with well-characterized biological functions and safety profile.
- ! Topical Applications: Most clinical research focuses on topical formulations for wound healing and skin conditions.
- ! Professional Use: Should be used under medical supervision for optimal safety and efficacy outcomes.
References & Citations
- Durr, U. H., et al. (2006). LL-37, the only human member of the cathelicidin family of antimicrobial peptides. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, 1758(9), 1408-1425. Source.
- Heilborn, J. D., et al. (2003). The cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide LL-37 is involved in re-epithelialization of human skin wounds. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 120(3), 379-389. Source.
- Vandamme, D., et al. (2012). A comprehensive summary of LL-37, the factotum human cathelicidin peptide. Cellular Immunology, 280(1), 22-35. Source.
Ask Dr. John About LL-37
Get personalized clinical insights from Dr. Jobby John, PharmD, FACA. Ask specific questions about LL-37 and receive evidence-based answers from his extensive clinical experience.
Dr. John typically responds to clinical questions within 24-48 hours. For urgent clinical decisions, please consult your institution's clinical pharmacist or contact appropriate medical professionals directly.