Peptide library · Recovery & repair
LL-37
Human cathelicidin
Research stage37amino acids. Your body's own antimicrobial peptide, made by skin and immune cells
What it is
The only cathelicidin humans make: a frontline defense peptide that kills microbes and helps wounds close.
Why researchers are interested
- A small human trial on chronic leg ulcers found faster healing with topical LL-37.
- Kills bacteria, fungi and some viruses in the lab.
- Helps recruit immune cells and new blood vessels to wounds.
Good to know
- Not FDA approved.
- Too much LL-37 is linked to some skin inflammation conditions, so balance matters.
Evidence level: 2 of 5
Sources
Grönberg et al., Wound Repair Regen 2014
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Educational content only. Not medical advice. Last reviewed 2026-10-17.