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ImmunePhase IIntermediate

LL-37

Human Cathelicidin Antimicrobial Peptide LL-37

Also known as: Cathelicidin, hCAP-18 Fragment, CAMP

Overview

The only human cathelicidin, a 37-amino acid antimicrobial peptide cleaved from the C-terminus of hCAP-18. Functions as a critical component of innate immunity with direct pathogen-killing activity and potent immunomodulatory effects.

Half-Life
~4 hours
Typical Dose
50–100 mcg
Frequency
1x daily or every other day
Cycle Length
4-8 weeks

Administration

SubcutaneousTopical

Benefits

  • Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity (bacteria, fungi, viruses)
  • Disrupts bacterial biofilm formation
  • Promotes wound healing and angiogenesis
  • Neutralizes bacterial endotoxin (LPS)
  • Recruits immune cells to infection sites (chemotactic)
  • Modulates adaptive immune response activation

Side Effects

  • Injection site irritation or stinging
  • Localized redness and swelling
  • Mild headache (uncommon)
  • Transient skin irritation with topical use

Mechanism of Action

  • Directly disrupts microbial cell membranes via amphipathic alpha-helix insertion
  • Inhibits bacterial biofilm matrix formation and promotes dispersal
  • Activates formyl peptide receptor-like 1 (FPRL1) for immune cell chemotaxis
  • Stimulates TLR-mediated immune signaling in macrophages and dendritic cells
  • Promotes keratinocyte migration and re-epithelialization in wounds

Contraindications

  • Active rosacea or psoriasis (LL-37 overexpression implicated)
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Known hypersensitivity to cathelicidin peptides
  • Active autoimmune skin conditions

Storage & Reconstitution

Store at 2–8°C (36–46°F) for up to 3 months. For long-term storage, keep at -20°C (-4°F). Once reconstituted, refrigerate and use within 1-2 weeks. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

Common peptide amounts:5 mg10 mg

Research Summary

Extensively studied innate immune peptide with over 2,000 published papers. Phase 1 clinical trials conducted for chronic wound healing (OP-145, a derivative). Strong preclinical data for biofilm-associated infections, diabetic wound healing, and adjunct antibiotic therapy. Vitamin D-dependent expression explains some immune benefits of vitamin D supplementation.

Commonly Stacked With

ImmuneKPV
ImmuneThymosin Alpha-1
ImmuneBPC-157 (Immune)

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide.