What is LL-37?
LL-37 is a naturally occurring human cathelicidin host-defense peptide. It is studied for antimicrobial activity, immune signalling, angiogenesis and wound repair.
Proposed mechanism
LL-37 can interact with microbial membranes and also influence inflammatory signalling, keratinocyte migration, angiogenesis and repair pathways.
What has been published?
Human topical studies include chronic venous-leg-ulcer trials and a randomized double-blind diabetic-foot-ulcer study. Results have been promising in some settings but inconsistent across full trial populations.
Current human evidence
A 34-person first-in-human venous-ulcer trial reported encouraging healing signals at lower topical concentrations. A later 148-person Phase IIb trial did not show a significant benefit in the full cohort, although a post-hoc large-wound subgroup signal was observed. A separate diabetic-foot-ulcer trial reported enhanced healing rate.
Regulatory status
LL-37 remains experimental and should not be presented as an approved wound treatment or systemic antimicrobial therapy.
Possible areas of research interest
- Innate immunity
- Antimicrobial peptide biology
- Wound healing
- Angiogenesis and keratinocyte biology
Important limitations
- Clinical evidence is small and mixed
- Positive subgroup findings require confirmation
- Topical wound research cannot establish systemic uses
- Dose and formulation matter substantially
References
AEVLI prioritizes primary publications and regulator materials over anecdotal claims.