Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

Pexiganan vs PGLa

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

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....

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PGLa
Antimicrobial Peptide

PGLa is a 22-residue alpha-helical antimicrobial peptide co-isolated with magainin-2 from the skin of the African clawed frog Xenopus laevis. Individually, PGLa and magainin-2 show modest antimicrobial activity, but when combined at equimolar ratios, they exhibit synergistic kill...

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Key Parameters
Parameter Pexiganan PGLa
Category Antimicrobial Peptide Antimicrobial Peptide
Research Phase 3 (Failed 1999) Preclinical
Half-Life Hours (topical) Minutes (proteolytic)
Typical Dose 0.8% cream topically N/A
Frequency Twice daily N/A
Route Topical cream Research only
FDA Status Not approved (failed Phase 3) Not approved

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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Pexiganan and PGLa?
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... PGLa: PGLa is a 22-residue alpha-helical antimicrobial peptide co-isolated with magainin-2 from the skin of the African clawed frog Xenopus laevis. Individually, PGLa and magainin-2 show modest antimicrobia...
Which has a longer half-life, Pexiganan or PGLa?
Pexiganan half-life: Hours (topical). PGLa half-life: Minutes (proteolytic).
Can you stack Pexiganan and PGLa?
Pexiganan and PGLa 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.