LL-37 is a 37-amino acid peptide derived from the C-terminal domain of human cathelicidin (hCAP-18). It is the only cathelicidin-derived antimicrobial peptide identified in humans and is widely used as a research tool for investigating innate immune defence mechanisms in experimental systems.
In biochemical and cellular research models, LL-37 has been reported to interact with bacterial membranes and modulate host immune signalling pathways. Observed activities include membrane disruption in microbial models, modulation of inflammatory mediator release, and influence on cell migration and proliferation in in vitro assays. Experimental outcomes are highly dependent on concentration, model system, and assay conditions.
Applications in Research
- As a molecular tool to study host-defence peptide activity and innate immune signalling
- Investigation of antimicrobial peptide–membrane interactions in microbial model systems
- In vitro studies examining immunomodulatory effects on cytokine and chemokine release
- Preclinical or ex vivo experimental models for mechanistic investigation of cathelicidin biology
Specifications Summary
| Parameter |
Typical Value / Range |
| Purity (HPLC) |
≥ 99% |
| Appearance |
White to off-white lyophilised powder |
| Molecular Weight |
4493.33 g/mol |
| Peptide Type |
Synthetic cathelicidin-derived antimicrobial peptide |
| Solubility |
Water, buffered aqueous solutions |
| Storage |
−20 °C, desiccated, dark |
| Pack Size |
5 mg |
Precautions & Notes
- Experimental behaviour of LL-37 is dependent on concentration, model system, and exposure conditions
- Due to reported interaction with multiple immune signalling pathways, appropriate experimental controls are recommended
- Prolonged exposure to light, elevated temperature, or aqueous environments may reduce stability
- Intended strictly for laboratory research use; not for human or veterinary application
References
Vandamme D. et al. A comprehensive summary of LL-37, the factotum human cathelicidin peptide. Cellular Immunology, 2012.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23246832/
