Antimicrobial
LL-37
LL-37 is the sole human cathelicidin-derived antimicrobial peptide, produced by cleavage of the hCAP18 precursor protein. It exhibits broad-spectrum activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses through membrane disruption and immunomodulatory mechanisms. Beyond direct antimicrobial action, LL-37 modulates inflammation, promotes wound healing, and bridges innate and adaptive immune responses.
Quick Facts
Also known asHuman Cathelicidin, hCAP18-derived peptide
CategoryAntimicrobial
Half-life30 minutes
Routestopical, subcutaneous
Molecular weight4493.33 Da
Chain length37 amino acids
SequenceLLGDFFRKSKEKIGKEFKRIVQRIKDFLRNLVPRTES
FDA statusNot approved
Storage-20°C (frozen). Reconstituted: 7 days.
Dosing Protocols
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route | Cycle | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chronic Venous Ulcers | 2x/week | topical | 8 weeks | 0.5 mg/mL topical gel, twice weekly, 2-8 weeks. Dose is concentration-based. | |
| Diabetic Foot Ulcers | 1x/day | topical | 8 weeks | 0.5-1.6 mg/mL topical cream, daily, 2-8 weeks. | |
| Acute Wound Healing | 1x/day | topical | 8 weeks | 1.6 mg/mL topical gel/cream, once daily. | |
| Burn Wounds | 1-2x/day | topical | 8 weeks | 1.0 mg/mL topical gel, once-twice daily. | |
| Immune Support (Injectable) | 100 mcg | 1x/day | subcutaneous | 12 weeks | 100 mcg once daily SubQ, 4-12 weeks. |
Protocols shown are for informational purposes only. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.
Track Your LL-37 Protocol
Log doses, manage vial inventory, set injection reminders, and visualize blood concentration levels.
Start Tracking — FreeCommon Questions
What is the typical dose of LL-37?
A common dose for LL-37 is 2x/week via topical. 0.5 mg/mL topical gel, twice weekly, 2-8 weeks. Dose is concentration-based.
What is the half-life of LL-37?
The half-life of LL-37 is approximately 30 minutes. This determines how long the peptide remains active in your body and influences dosing frequency.
How should I store LL-37?
Store LL-37 at -20°C (frozen). Antimicrobial peptide that can adsorb to plastic and glass surfaces, reducing effective concentration. Use low-binding tubes. Aliquot reconstituted solution to avoid freeze-thaw cycles. Once reconstituted, use within 7 days.
Is LL-37 FDA approved?
LL-37 is not FDA approved and is available for research purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety or efficacy in humans.
References
- Treatment with LL-37 is safe and effective in enhancing healing of venous leg ulcers (2014) (pubmed)
- LL-37, the master antimicrobial peptide - multifaceted role (2025) (article)
- Structures of human host defense cathelicidin LL-37 (2008) (article)
- MRSA Biofilm Study (2019) (article)
- Discovery of novel antibacterial agent for infected wound treatment (2024) (pubmed)
- LL-37: Structures, Antimicrobial Activity, and Influence on Amyloid-Related Diseases (2024) (article)