LL-37
/ 37-amino-acid cationic antimicrobial peptide; human cathelicidinALIAS · Cathelicidin · CAMP
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Substantial academic literature on broad antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and wound-healing activity. Small human topical trials in wound care. No pivotal approval.
LL-37 is the mature 37-amino-acid cationic antimicrobial peptide processed from the human cathelicidin precursor (hCAP18). It has direct antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and some viruses, and immunomodulatory effects on neutrophil recruitment and inflammation resolution. Topical and local applications have been explored for chronic wound healing.
Academic research has produced several small human studies on topical LL-37 in chronic wounds (venous leg ulcers) with modest effects. No FDA approval for any indication.
Topical use in small trials has been generally well tolerated. Systemic administration is complicated by hemolytic activity at higher concentrations and potential inflammatory effects.
Regulatory status
- FDA status:
- Not FDA-approved
LL-37 is elevated in rosacea skin and has been implicated in rosacea pathogenesis, complicating simple “antimicrobial is always beneficial” framing. The dual antimicrobial / inflammatory role makes indications-specific trial design critical.