1. What is LL-37?
LL-37 is a human cathelicidin-derived peptide, belonging to the class of cationic host defense peptides (HDPs). It is produced from the precursor protein hCAP-18 and is widely studied for its role in innate immune defense, antimicrobial activity, and epithelial barrier support. LL-37 is of particular interest in research due to its ability to interact with microbial membranes, influence immune signaling pathways, and participate in tissue repair mechanisms.
2. LL-37 Structure
Sequence:-Leu-Leu-Gly-Asp-Phe-Phe-Arg-Lys-Ser-Lys-Glu-Lys-lle-Gly-Lys-Glu-Phe- Lys-Arg-lle-Val-GIn-Arg-lle-Lys-Asp-Phe-Leu-Arg-Asn-Leu-Val-Pro-Arg-Thr-Glu-Ser
Molecular Formula: C₂₀₅H₃₄₀N₆₀O₅₃
Molecular Weight: 4493.342 g/mol
PubChem CID: 16198951
CAS Number:154947-66-7
Synonyms:CAP-18,Cathelicidin, antibacterial peptide LL-37
3. LL-37 Research
【1】 Antimicrobial Function
l Shown in research models to disrupt microbial membranes via electrostatic binding 【1】
l Studied for broad-spectrum effects against Gram-negative, Gram-positive, and fungal organisms
l In vitro data suggest activity against several enveloped viruses 【2】
【2】 Immunomodulation
l Interacts with toll-like receptors (TLRs) and immune cells in experimental systems
l Reduces certain pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) while enhancing IL-10 【3】
【3】 Tissue & Barrier Research
l Studied for roles in fibroblast proliferation, collagen regulation, and epithelial migration
l Experimental models suggest relevance to wound closure and extracellular matrix remodeling 【4】
l Shown to support epithelial defenses in gut and lung research models
【4】 Emerging Areas
l Investigated in cell and animal studies related to neuroinflammation and autoimmune models
l Interest in potential roles in microglial signaling and blood-brain barrier stability
✅ Why Consider LL-37 (Research Context)?
l 🦠 Broad-spectrum antimicrobial peptide studied in vitro
l 🧬 Explored as an immunomodulator in cell and animal models
l 🩹 Investigated for roles in collagen synthesis and epithelial barrier support
l 🌬️ Research interest in lung and gut mucosal defense
l 🧠 Early studies suggest potential relevance to CNS and neuroinflammatory models
4. Future LL-37 Research
A. Infectious Disease Models
l Being studied against multidrug-resistant bacteria and biofilms
l Pulmonary delivery approaches explored in preclinical models 【5】
B. Cancer Biology
Research indicates LL-37 may have dual roles depending on receptor expression; ongoing work explores safe derivatives
C. Regenerative Materials & Bioengineering
Development of LL-37-based hydrogels and scaffolds for tissue culture and wound models 【6】
D. Autoimmune & Neurological Models
Studied in animal models of inflammatory and neurodegenerative conditions
E. Combinatorial Peptide Research
Research interest in combining LL-37 with peptides like BPC-157 or GHK-Cu in experimental tissue models
5.Application Area
l Antimicrobial Research: Gram-positive, Gram-negative, fungi, and enveloped viruses
l Immunology: Cytokine modulation, TLR interactions, macrophage and dendritic cell studies
l Tissue Regeneration Models: Collagen production, fibroblast migration, epithelial growth
l Barrier Function Studies: Gut-lung epithelial integrity, mucosal immunity research
l Neuroinflammation: Animal and cellular models of CNS inflammation
✅ Summary
LL-37 is a multifunctional host defense peptide that:
✔️ Exhibits antimicrobial properties in experimental models
✔️ Modulates immune signaling without broad immunosuppression
✔️ Plays a role in epithelial defense and tissue regeneration research
✔️ Investigated across infectious disease, immunology, barrier function, and bioengineering studies
⚠️ Disclaimer
ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro research use only. In-vitro studies (Latin: “in glass”) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat, or cure any medical condition, ailment, or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.
