Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

Nisin vs Pexiganan

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

Nisin
Antimicrobial Peptide

Nisin A is a 34-residue lanthipeptide bacteriocin produced by Lactococcus lactis. It is the only bacteriocin approved for food use by the FDA (GRAS status, E234 in EU), widely used as a natural food preservative in dairy, canned goods, and processed meats....

Calculate Nisin dose →
Pexiganan
Antimicrobial Peptide

Pexiganan (MSI-78) is a synthetic analog of magainin-2, optimized for enhanced broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and reduced hemolytic toxicity. It was developed by Magainin Pharmaceuticals (later Genaera) as a topical treatment for mildly infected diabetic foot ulcers....

Calculate Pexiganan dose →
Key Parameters
Parameter Nisin Pexiganan
Category Antimicrobial Peptide Antimicrobial Peptide
Research GRAS Food Use / Preclinical (medical) Phase 3 (Failed 1999)
Half-Life Minutes-hours (pH and protease dependent) Hours (topical)
Typical Dose N/A (food use to ~500 ppm) 0.8% cream topically
Frequency N/A Twice daily
Route Topical / Oral (food use) Topical cream
FDA Status GRAS (food) / Investigational (medical) Not approved (failed Phase 3)

Calculate doses for both

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

Calculate Nisin Calculate Pexiganan
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Nisin and Pexiganan?
Nisin: Nisin A is a 34-residue lanthipeptide bacteriocin produced by Lactococcus lactis. It is the only bacteriocin approved for food use by the FDA (GRAS status, E234 in EU), widely used as a natural food p... Pexiganan: Pexiganan (MSI-78) is a synthetic analog of magainin-2, optimized for enhanced broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and reduced hemolytic toxicity. It was developed by Magainin Pharmaceuticals (later...
Which has a longer half-life, Nisin or Pexiganan?
Nisin half-life: Minutes-hours (pH and protease dependent). Pexiganan half-life: Hours (topical).
Can you stack Nisin and Pexiganan?
Nisin and Pexiganan 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.