Back to Wiki
Recovery & Healing82% Accuracy

LL-37

Human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide — the body's primary endogenous antibiotic, with wound healing and immune defense roles

198 community discussions2 research citations

LL-37 is the only cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide expressed in humans, derived from the cleavage of the precursor protein hCAP18. It is found in neutrophils, keratinocytes, epithelial cells, and plasma, and serves as a critical first-line defense against bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens. Its name reflects its 37-amino acid length and leucine-leucine N-terminal residues.

Beyond direct antimicrobial activity — disrupting microbial membranes and combating biofilms — LL-37 acts as an immune modulator, recruiting immune cells to infection sites, stimulating angiogenesis, and promoting wound closure. Deficiency in LL-37 is associated with recurrent skin infections in atopic dermatitis and poor wound healing in chronic wounds.

Exogenous LL-37 is being explored clinically for chronic wound management, antibiotic-resistant infections, and as a potential adjunct in cancer immunotherapy. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and tolerability make it a unique peptide at the intersection of innate immunity and tissue repair.

Primary Benefits

Broad-spectrum antimicrobial (bacteria, viruses, fungi)
Anti-biofilm activity
Wound healing acceleration
Immune cell recruitment
Angiogenesis promotion