LL-37: research overview
MOLEVIA supplies LL-37 as a research reagent for laboratory use only. Below you will find the molecule’s structure, the areas where the peptide is studied, technical parameters, and handling rules for the lyophilized powder.
What is LL-37
LL-37 is a peptide built from 37 amino acids. It is the only cathelicidin found in humans, a family of peptides that belongs to the innate immune system. It is produced from the larger precursor protein hCAP-18, and the mature LL-37 is released from its C-terminal part after processing.
The molecule is positively charged and amphipathic. One face of its helix is hydrophilic and the other is hydrophobic. This arrangement shapes how the peptide interacts with membranes and other proteins, which is why it attracts so much research interest.
Mechanism described in research
In vitro studies describe LL-37 binding to negatively charged bacterial membranes. The peptide disrupts membrane integrity, which leads to loss of cell envelope function. This direct action depends strongly on the composition of the membrane.
Researchers also study its signalling effects. In laboratory models, LL-37 has been observed to influence neutrophil and monocyte chemotaxis, to activate G protein-coupled receptors including FPR2, and to modulate cytokine release in inflammation models.
Research areas
- antimicrobial models in vitro
- biofilm formation and disruption in laboratory cultures
- inflammatory response and migration of immune cells
- wound healing models on cell cultures
- angiogenesis in in vitro models
- peptide interactions with lipid bilayers
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Name | LL-37 |
| CAS number | 154947-66-7 |
| Formula | C205H340N60O53 |
| Molecular mass | 4493.3 g/mol |
| Form | lyophilized powder |
| Purity | 99%+ (HPLC) |
| Available pack size | 5 mg |
Working in the laboratory
Keep the lyophilized powder at -20 °C in a tightly sealed container, away from light. Before opening the vial, let it warm to room temperature so moisture does not condense on the powder.
Once dissolved, store the solution at 2-8 °C and use it within a short period. Avoid repeated freezing and thawing. If you plan several series of experiments, divide the solution into aliquots at the preparation stage.
The role of the solvent depends on the peptide. Bacteriostatic water is the most common choice for reconstitution because it limits microbial growth in the solution. Dilute acetic acid is used as a supporting solvent when the peptide needs a change of environment, for example when it dissolves poorly in pure water. Confirm the choice against the compound’s data sheet and your own experimental plan.
Batch quality
Every LL-37 batch is tested by HPLC, with purity of 99%+. Molecular mass is confirmed by mass spectrometry (MS), so both composition and molecular weight are verified.
Related products and tools
If you run similar studies, see also: BPC-157, TB-500 and Thymosin Alpha-1.
Browse the full range in the tissue research category. Batch parameters are described on our quality page, and the concentration calculator helps you work out solution concentrations.
