LL-37: The Human Antimicrobial Peptide
The only human cathelicidin: 37 amino acids that form the first line of innate defense, with additional roles in wound healing, angiogenesis and immunomodulation.
What LL-37 is
LL-37 is the active fragment of hCAP-18, the only human cathelicidin. It is an antimicrobial peptide of 37 amino acids (it starts with two leucines, hence "LL") produced by neutrophils and epithelial cells as part of innate immunity.
Mechanism of action
It has a dual function:
- Direct antimicrobial — its amphipathic structure destabilizes the membranes of bacteria, fungi and some viruses.
- Immunomodulator — recruitment of immune cells, cytokine modulation, wound healing and angiogenesis.
It is a peptide with dual behavior: depending on the context it can be pro- or anti-inflammatory, which makes it interesting and complex at the same time.
Research lines
It is being investigated in infection, chronic wounds, dermatological conditions (its dysregulation is associated with rosacea and psoriasis) and immunity. The evidence is mostly preclinical and mechanistic. RUO context, not medical advice.
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⚠ For research use only. Not medical advice.