Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

Melittin vs ShK

Melittin vs ShK — mechanism, half-life, dosing, and research status compared. Which is right for your protocol?

Melittin
Venom Peptide

Melittin is the primary cytolytic component of bee venom (Apis mellifera), comprising ~50% of dry venom weight. It is a 26-amino acid amphipathic, cationic peptide that forms an alpha-helix in membrane environments and disrupts lipid bilayers via a detergent-like mechanism....

Calculate Melittin dose →
ShK
Venom Peptide

ShK is a 35-residue peptide toxin from the sea anemone Stichodactyla helianthus. 3 potassium channel (Kd ~11 pM), which is the dominant channel controlling membrane potential in effector memory T cells (TEM cells)....

Calculate ShK dose →
Key Parameters
Parameter Melittin ShK
Category Venom Peptide Venom Peptide
Research Preclinical Phase 2
Half-Life < 30 min (plasma) Hours (disulfide stabilized)
Typical Dose Research only N/A
Frequency N/A N/A
Route IV, topical (research) SC injection (research)
FDA Status No approval Investigational (dalazatide)

Calculate doses for both

Use ASCEND's free reconstitution calculator to get exact syringe draw amounts for your vial.

Calculate Melittin Calculate ShK
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Melittin and ShK?
Melittin: Melittin is the primary cytolytic component of bee venom (Apis mellifera), comprising ~50% of dry venom weight. It is a 26-amino acid amphipathic, cationic peptide that forms an alpha-helix in membran... ShK: ShK is a 35-residue peptide toxin from the sea anemone Stichodactyla helianthus. 3 potassium channel (Kd ~11 pM), which is the dominant channel controlling membrane potential in effector memory T cell...
Which has a longer half-life, Melittin or ShK?
Melittin half-life: < 30 min (plasma). ShK half-life: Hours (disulfide stabilized).
Can you stack Melittin and ShK?
Melittin and ShK 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.