LL-37 (Cathelicidin) (5 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
LL-37 is a 37-amino-acid antimicrobial peptide derived from the human cathelicidin protein. It exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and wound-healing properties.
⚡ Quickstart Highlights
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Educational guide for reconstitution and daily dosing
Standard / Gradual Approach (3 mL = ~1.67 mg/mL)
| Week | Daily Dose (µg) | Units (per injection) (mL) |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | 50 µg | 3 units (0.03 mL) |
| Week 2 | 100 µg | 6 units (0.06 mL) |
| Week 3 | 150 µg | 9 units (0.09 mL) |
| Week 4 | 200 µg | 12 units (0.12 mL) |
| Week 5 | 250 µg | 15 units (0.15 mL) |
| Week 6 | 300 µg | 18 units (0.18 mL) |
| Week 7 | 350 µg | 21 units (0.21 mL) |
| Week 8 | 400 µg | 24 units (0.24 mL) |
Frequency: Inject once daily subcutaneously. Some protocols use a 5-days-on, 2-days-off schedule. For ≤10-unit (≤0.10 mL) administrations during early titration, consider 30- or 50-unit insulin syringes for improved readability.
Reconstitution Steps
- Draw 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the vial wall; avoid foaming.
- Gently swirl/roll until dissolved (do not shake).
- Label and refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F), protected from light.
Important: This guide is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. For research use only. Not for human consumption.
Supplies Needed
Plan based on an 8–16 week daily protocol with gradual titration.
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Peptide Vials (LL-37, 5 mg each) | 8 weeks ≈ 3 vials 12 weeks ≈ 5 vials 16 weeks ≈ 7 vials |
| Insulin Syringes (U-100) | Per week: 7 syringes (1/day) 8 weeks: 56 syringes 12 weeks: 84 syringes 16 weeks: 112 syringes |
| Bacteriostatic Water (10 mL bottles) | 8 weeks (3 vials): 9 mL → 1 × 10 mL bottle 12 weeks (5 vials): 15 mL → 2 × 10 mL bottles 16 weeks (7 vials): 21 mL → 3 × 10 mL bottles |
| Alcohol Swabs | Per week: 14 swabs (2/day) 8 weeks: 112 swabs → recommend 2 × 100-count boxes 12 weeks: 168 swabs → recommend 2 × 100-count boxes 16 weeks: 224 swabs → recommend 3 × 100-count boxes |
Storage Instructions
| State | Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Lyophilized | −20°C (−4°F) | Up to 24 months, dry & dark |
| Reconstituted | 2–8°C (35–46°F) | Up to 30 days, protect from light |
Important Notes
How This Works
LL-37 is the active C-terminal fragment of human cathelicidin antimicrobial protein 18 (hCAP18), produced by neutrophils and epithelial cells as part of innate immunity. It disrupts bacterial membranes via amphipathic alpha-helical structure, binds bacterial LPS, and modulates immune cell trafficking and cytokine production.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Potential Benefits
- Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity (gram+/–, fungi, viruses).
- Immunomodulation via dendritic cell activation.
- Promotes wound closure and re-epithelialization.
- Anti-biofilm activity in chronic wound models.
Side Effect Profile
- Generally well-tolerated.
- Mild injection-site reactions possible.
- Pro-inflammatory at high concentrations in some contexts.
Lifestyle Factors
- Adequate vitamin D supports endogenous LL-37 expression.
- Anti-inflammatory diet supports immune function.
Injection Technique
- Subcutaneous into abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate sites.
- Topical formulations exist for direct wound application in research.