Evidence Grade B — Strong clinical evidence. 2475 published studies, 1801 human. 20 registered clinical trials.
Medically reviewed by a licensed medical professional
LL-37 is the only antimicrobial peptide of its type (cathelicidin) produced by the human body, naturally released by immune cells and skin cells as part of the innate immune defence. Synthetic versions have been tested in early clinical trials for melanoma skin cancer, diabetic foot ulcers, and leg ulcers. It has no marketing authorisation.
LL-37 is also known by these brand and alternate names:
2,475 published studies: 1801 human, 167 animal, 540 in-vitro, 247 reviews
LL-37 has no marketing authorisation. Early-phase clinical trials have been conducted: a Phase I/II study of intratumoral injection in melanoma reported local tumour regression; Phase II trials in diabetic foot ulcers and venous leg ulcers have assessed wound healing applications.
LL-37 is of significant scientific interest as the sole human cathelicidin and has an extensive preclinical literature on antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. Clinical development remains at an early stage, and no Phase III trials have been completed.
Research suggests LL-37 has direct antimicrobial activity by disrupting bacterial cell membranes, combined with broader immune-modulating effects including immune cell recruitment, inflammation regulation, and promotion of wound healing. These dual properties — direct pathogen killing plus immune system coordination — are characteristic of antimicrobial peptides as a class. Clinical translation is being investigated but is not yet established.
Research suggests LL-37 has dual properties — direct bacterial killing combined with immune system coordination — that make it scientifically interesting as a potential therapeutic. A Phase I/II melanoma trial showed local tumour regression with direct injection, and Phase II wound healing trials have been conducted. Clinical development remains at an early stage with no Phase III trials completed. Practical challenges include a very short half-life in the blood (under 30 minutes), toxicity at higher concentrations, and high manufacturing cost for a 37-amino-acid peptide. The compound is also elevated in rosacea, illustrating its dual pro-and anti-inflammatory nature. Research into shorter active fragments and nanoparticle delivery systems aims to address these limitations.
PeptideTrace tracks 20 registered clinical trials for LL-37 sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov.
Evaluation of 25(OH)D3 and LL-37 Levels in Periimplant Sulcus Fluid
Cathelicidin LL-37 Relation to Potentially Malignant Lesions
Crosstalk Between Mucosal-Associated Invariant T (MAIT) Cells and the Gut Microbiota and Mucosa in the Development of Type 1 Diabetes in Children
Chlorhexidine and Essential Oil Mouthwashes on Human Beta-Defensin 2 (hbD2) and Kathelicidin (LL-37) Saliva Levels
The Role of Anti-inflammatory Cytokines and Antimicrobial Peptide LL-37 Biomarkers in the Treatment of Periodontal Disease.
LL-37 is the sole human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, 37-amino-acid (begins Leu-Leu), MW ~4,493 Da. Cleaved from hCAP-18 precursor by proteinase 3. Amphipathic alpha-helix, +6 net charge. Expressed by neutrophils, macrophages, epithelial cells, keratinocytes; upregulated by vitamin D. Not approved therapeutically.
Research suggests antimicrobial activity via membrane disruption (MIC 1-16 mcg/mL gram-positive and gram-negative). Immune modulation: activates FPR2, P2X7, EGFR transactivation; promotes chemotaxis, IL-8/MCP production, DC differentiation, angiogenesis. Neutralizes LPS. Enhances wound healing via keratinocyte migration.
No marketing authorization. Phase I/II melanoma intratumoral (N=3): local regression and immune infiltration. Phase II diabetic foot ulcers (ProMore Pharma; N=~30): improved healing. Phase I venous leg ulcers: safety confirmed. Extensive preclinical antimicrobial/anti-biofilm/immunomodulatory data.
The information on this page is provided for educational and research reference purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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