Approved & therapeutic
LL-37
Cathelicidin
A naturally occurring antimicrobial peptide that is part of your innate immune system. Acts as your body's first line of defense against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Also known as: CAP-18, LL37
- Status
- LL-37 is a research compound and not approved by the FDA for human use.
- Evidence
- Early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far.
- Half-life
- ~4-6 hours
- How it's taken
- Subcutaneous injection
- Mechanism
- Immune modulation
How LL-37 works
Directly disrupts the membranes of bacteria and viruses, killing them on contact. Also recruits immune cells to infection sites and helps modulate inflammation to prevent over-reaction.
What research has looked at
- Broad antimicrobial activity
- Anti-biofilm properties
- Wound healing support
- Immune system modulation
- May help with chronic infections
Evidence level: Early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far. These are areas studied or reported, not promised effects.
Reported side effects and risks
- Injection site pain
- Redness and swelling
- Potential for immune over-stimulation
- Limited dosing data in humans
- Not FDA-approved for therapeutic use
Sources
- PubMed research on cathelicidin LL-37 antimicrobial peptide · NIH · National Library of Medicine
- StatPearls / NCBI Bookshelf on cathelicidin LL-37 · NCBI Bookshelf
- DrugBank record for cathelicidin · DrugBank
Track LL-37 in Peptide Vault
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LL-37 FAQ
What is LL-37?
A naturally occurring antimicrobial peptide that is part of your innate immune system. Acts as your body's first line of defense against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
How does LL-37 work?
Directly disrupts the membranes of bacteria and viruses, killing them on contact. Also recruits immune cells to infection sites and helps modulate inflammation to prevent over-reaction.
Is LL-37 FDA approved?
No. LL-37 is a research compound and not approved by the FDA for human use. Evidence level: early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far.
What is the half-life of LL-37?
Reported half-life: ~4-6 hours.
How is LL-37 taken?
Subcutaneous injection.
What side effects have been reported with LL-37?
Reported in the sources: Injection site pain; Redness and swelling; Potential for immune over-stimulation; Limited dosing data in humans; Not FDA-approved for therapeutic use.
Educational summary compiled from the sources listed above. Not medical advice. Peptide Vault does not sell, source or recommend any compound. Talk to a qualified clinician before starting or changing anything.