LL-37 (Human Cathelicidin)

Overview

LL-37 is the only human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, a 37-amino acid cationic peptide derived from hCAP18 that exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi while modulating immune responses.

Provides direct antimicrobial activity through membrane disruption, promotes wound healing by enhancing keratinocyte migration and angiogenesis, and modulates immune responses without systemic exposure when used topically.

68% ulcer area reduction demonstrated with 0.5mg/mL concentration in clinical trials.

Enhanced granulation tissue formation and wound closure.

Accelerated healing demonstrated in animal models.

Boosts natural immune defenses against pathogens.

Mechanism

LL-37 is the only human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, a 37-amino acid cationic peptide derived from hCAP18 that exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi while modulating immune responses.

Provides direct antimicrobial activity through membrane disruption, promotes wound healing by enhancing keratinocyte migration and angiogenesis, and modulates immune responses without systemic exposure when used topically.

68% ulcer area reduction demonstrated with 0.5mg/mL concentration in clinical trials.

Research areas

• LL-37 is the only human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, a 37-amino acid cationic peptide derived from hCAP18 that exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi while modulating immune responses.
• Provides direct antimicrobial activity through membrane disruption, promotes wound healing by enhancing keratinocyte migration and angiogenesis, and modulates immune responses without systemic exposure when used topically.
• 68% ulcer area reduction demonstrated with 0.5mg/mL concentration in clinical trials.
• Enhanced granulation tissue formation and wound closure.
• Accelerated healing demonstrated in animal models.
• Boosts natural immune defenses against pathogens.
• Active against MRSA and multi-drug resistant bacteria with >4 log reduction in biofilms.
• Balances immune responses without causing immunosuppression.
• Stimulates skin cell growth and regeneration.
• Promotes new blood vessel formation for tissue repair.
• Supports collagen production for wound healing.

Research notes

• Generally well-tolerated
• Mild injection site reactions (injectable)
• Local irritation at application site (topical)
• Severe injection site reactions with spreading inflammation
• Allergic reaction signs (rash, difficulty breathing, swelling)
• Persistent flu-like symptoms
• Signs of wound infection (increased redness, warmth, drainage)
• Worsening wound condition or delayed healing
• Unusual pain or irritation at application site
• Pre-existing hypersensitivity to peptides
• Compromised immune status (relative contraindication)
• Non-sterile wound environments
• Yes. LL-37 showed >4 log reduction in MRSA biofilms compared to conventional antibiotics. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity works through membrane disruption, bypassing resistance mechanisms. It's effective against resistant gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
• No. Topical LL-37 has minimal systemic absorption when applied to wounds. Effects are localized to the wound site with direct antimicrobial and healing benefits. This makes it safe for wound-specific application without systemic side effects.

Pharmacokinetics

• Provides direct antimicrobial activity through membrane disruption, promotes wound healing by enhancing keratinocyte migration and angiogenesis, and modulates immune responses without systemic exposure when used topically.

FAQs