Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

Cathelicidin (LL-37) vs Defensin

Cathelicidin (LL-37) vs Defensin — mechanism, half-life, dosing, and research status compared. Which is right for your protocol?

Cathelicidin (LL-37)
Antimicrobial Peptide

LL-37 is the sole human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, derived by proteolytic cleavage of the 18 kDa precursor hCAP18 (encoded by the CAMP gene). It is produced by neutrophils, epithelial cells of the skin, gut, and airways, and mast cells....

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Defensin
Antimicrobial Peptide

Defensins are a superfamily of small, cysteine-rich cationic antimicrobial peptides that form a critical component of innate immunity across virtually all multicellular organisms. In humans, alpha-defensins (HNP-1 to -4 in neutrophils; HD-5, HD-6 in intestinal Paneth cells) and b...

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Key Parameters
Parameter Cathelicidin (LL-37) Defensin
Category Antimicrobial Peptide Antimicrobial Peptide
Research Clinical Research Research/Therapeutic Development
Half-Life < 10 min (plasma) Minutes-hours (tissue dependent)
Typical Dose Research: 1-100 ug/mL (topical) Research only
Frequency Varies by application N/A
Route Endogenous; topical/inhalation (research) Endogenous; topical/intranasal (research)
FDA Status No approval (clinical trials ongoing) No approval (research stage)

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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Cathelicidin (LL-37) and Defensin?
Cathelicidin (LL-37): LL-37 is the sole human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, derived by proteolytic cleavage of the 18 kDa precursor hCAP18 (encoded by the CAMP gene). It is produced by neutrophils, epithelial cells o... Defensin: Defensins are a superfamily of small, cysteine-rich cationic antimicrobial peptides that form a critical component of innate immunity across virtually all multicellular organisms. In humans, alpha-def...
Which has a longer half-life, Cathelicidin (LL-37) or Defensin?
Cathelicidin (LL-37) half-life: < 10 min (plasma). Defensin half-life: Minutes-hours (tissue dependent).
Can you stack Cathelicidin (LL-37) and Defensin?
Cathelicidin (LL-37) and Defensin are in the same category and used together in research protocols. Always consult relevant literature and follow appropriate guidelines.

For research use only. Not medical advice. ASCEND does not conduct or endorse any specific research protocol. Always consult relevant scientific literature and regulatory guidelines.