Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

Cathelicidin (LL-37) vs Magainin

Cathelicidin (LL-37) vs Magainin — 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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Magainin
Antimicrobial Peptide

Magainins are cationic, alpha-helical antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) isolated from the skin of the African clawed frog Xenopus laevis by Michael Zasloff in 1987. They are among the founding members of the frog skin AMP family and established the concept of innate immune peptide de...

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Key Parameters
Parameter Cathelicidin (LL-37) Magainin
Category Antimicrobial Peptide Antimicrobial Peptide
Research Clinical Research Clinical (topical)
Half-Life < 10 min (plasma) Minutes (plasma); hours (topical)
Typical Dose Research: 1-100 ug/mL (topical) Pexiganan cream 0.8%
Frequency Varies by application Twice daily (topical)
Route Endogenous; topical/inhalation (research) Topical (clinical), IV (research)
FDA Status No approval (clinical trials ongoing) Under review (pexiganan)

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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Cathelicidin (LL-37) and Magainin?
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... Magainin: Magainins are cationic, alpha-helical antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) isolated from the skin of the African clawed frog Xenopus laevis by Michael Zasloff in 1987. They are among the founding members of ...
Which has a longer half-life, Cathelicidin (LL-37) or Magainin?
Cathelicidin (LL-37) half-life: < 10 min (plasma). Magainin half-life: Minutes (plasma); hours (topical).
Can you stack Cathelicidin (LL-37) and Magainin?
Cathelicidin (LL-37) and Magainin 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.