LL-37
The Human Host Defense Peptide
Molecular Data
- Formula
- C205H340N60O53S
- Molecular Weight
- 4493.3 g/mol
01
Overview
LL-37 is the only human member of the cathelicidin family of antimicrobial peptides. It is a 37-residue helical peptide naturally produced by epithelial cells, neutrophils, NK cells, and monocytes. Beyond its antimicrobial function, research has revealed broad immunomodulatory, wound-healing, and angiogenic properties.
02
Mechanism of Action
LL-37 disrupts microbial membranes via electrostatic interaction and pore formation. It activates toll-like receptor signaling in host cells and stimulates the release of pro-healing cytokines. It also promotes keratinocyte migration and proliferation through EGFR transactivation.
03
Research Highlights
In vitro studies demonstrate activity against antibiotic-resistant pathogens including MRSA
Wound models show accelerated re-epithelialization and angiogenesis
Research in inflammatory bowel disease models suggests mucosal protective effects
04
Dosage
Administration & Timing
Subcutaneous (SC) injection into abdominal or gluteal subcutaneous tissue or topical application. Research protocols typically administer once daily; timing independent of food.
Dosage Guidelines
Cycle Length
2–4 weeks; longer protocols (up to 8 weeks) documented in chronic infection research.
05
Reconstitution
Solvent
Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% benzyl alcohol)
Volume
2 mL added to a 5 mg vial
Concentration
2.5 mg/mL (2,500 mcg/mL)
Storage
Refrigerate at 2–8 °C; protect from light. Discard 30 days after reconstitution.
Notes
LL-37 is membrane-active; avoid vigorous shaking. Use aseptic technique — antimicrobial activity does not preclude contamination.
Research Reference Only
Dosage and reconstitution values reflect commonly cited ranges from published research literature and are presented for educational and research reference only. This is not medical advice or a dosing recommendation. HEXAGEN does not endorse human use of any compound. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Research Disclaimer
LL-37 is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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LL-37 — Common Research Questions
What is LL-37?
LL-37 is the only human member of the cathelicidin family of antimicrobial peptides. It is a 37-residue helical peptide naturally produced by epithelial cells, neutrophils, NK cells, and monocytes. Be... LL-37 belongs to the Healing research category and is studied for its the human host defense peptide.
How does LL-37 work?
LL-37 disrupts microbial membranes via electrostatic interaction and pore formation. It activates toll-like receptor signaling in host cells and stimulates the release of pro-healing cytokines. It also promotes keratinocyte migration and proliferation through EGFR transactivation.
What are the key research benefits of LL-37?
Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Wound healing and epithelial repair. Angiogenesis and vascularization promotion. Immunomodulatory effects on innate immunity. Anti-biofilm properties. Anti-inflammatory in chronic inflammatory conditions.
What is the molecular structure of LL-37?
LL-37 has the molecular formula C205H340N60O53S and a molecular weight of 4493.3 g/mol. This structural information is important for researchers studying receptor binding and pharmacokinetics.
What does the research say about LL-37?
In vitro studies demonstrate activity against antibiotic-resistant pathogens including MRSA Wound models show accelerated re-epithelialization and angiogenesis Research in inflammatory bowel disease models suggests mucosal protective effects These findings are based on preclinical and clinical research. LL-37 is a research compound and these studies do not constitute medical advice.
Is LL-37 FDA approved?
No. LL-37 is not FDA-approved for any indication. It is a research chemical studied in preclinical and early clinical research. These compounds are not approved for human therapeutic use and should only be studied in appropriate research settings.
What category does LL-37 belong to?
LL-37 belongs to the Healing category, which focuses on research-grade peptides studied for their regenerative and healing properties, supporting tissue repair, inflammation modulation, and systemic recovery. You can explore more compounds in this category on the Healing pillar page.
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Scientific References
Dürr et al. — "The human cathelicidin LL-37″ (Nat Rev Microbiol, 2006)
Cederlund et al. — Antimicrobial peptide review, FEBS J, 2017
Wang et al. — Wound healing and angiogenesis, J Invest Dermatol, 2014
In vitro studies demonstrate activity against antibiotic-resistant pathogens including MRSA
Wound models show accelerated re-epithelialization and angiogenesis
Research in inflammatory bowel disease models suggests mucosal protective effects