LL-37 is the only known human cathelicidin — a 37-amino acid antimicrobial peptide derived from hCAP18, studied for innate immunity, wound healing, and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
LL-37 is the sole human member of the cathelicidin family of antimicrobial peptides, comprising 37 amino acids derived from the C-terminal domain of the precursor protein hCAP18 (human cationic antimicrobial protein of 18 kDa). It is expressed in neutrophils, epithelial cells, and a range of other tissues, where it plays a central role in the first line of innate immune defense against pathogens.
LL-37 exerts broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity through electrostatic interaction with negatively charged bacterial membranes, leading to membrane disruption and bacterial cell death. In vitro studies have demonstrated activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses. Its membrane-targeting mechanism — rather than a specific intracellular target — has generated research interest in the context of antimicrobial resistance, where traditional antibiotics increasingly fail.
Beyond its antimicrobial properties, LL-37 plays an active role in wound healing pathways. Studies have demonstrated that LL-37 promotes keratinocyte migration and proliferation, stimulates angiogenesis, and modulates inflammatory responses during tissue repair. Dysregulation of LL-37 expression has been observed in chronic wound conditions and inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis and rosacea, making it a subject of active research into the peptide's dual antimicrobial and tissue-repair functions. All NuvoTide LL-37 is supplied for in-vitro research use only.
For in-vitro research use only. Not for human or veterinary use.