5-Amino-1MQ vs LL-37 (Cathelicidin)

Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.

5-Amino-1MQLL-37 (Cathelicidin)
CategoryPeptidesPeptides
Standard DoseResearch indicates 50-150 mg daily via oral administration, typically divided into 1-2 doses.Research indicates 50-100 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection for immune support.
TimingMorning dosing preferred. Can be taken with or without food.Morning administration preferred for immune support. Topical application directly to wound sites.
Cycle Duration8-12 week cycles.4-8 week cycles. Short-term use preferred due to limited long-term safety data.
Evidence Levelanimal_plus_anecdotalanimal_plus_anecdotal
A

5-Amino-1MQ

Peptides

Mechanism

5-Amino-1MQ is a small molecule inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) to nicotinamide, generating 1-methylnicotinamide (1-MNA). By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ increases intracellular NAD+ levels, reduces 1-MNA production, suppresses lipogenesis in adipocytes, and modulates the methionine-homocysteine cycle. In vivo, it significantly reduces body weight, white adipose mass, and adipocyte size through enhanced energy expenditure and altered lipid metabolism.

Standard Dosing

Research indicates 50-150 mg daily via oral administration, typically divided into 1-2 doses.

Timing

Morning dosing preferred. Can be taken with or without food.

Cycle Duration

8-12 week cycles.

Side Effects

  • Mild GI discomfort
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea (uncommon)
  • Nausea at higher doses

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Severe hepatic impairment
  • Active cancer (NAD+ modulation concern)

Best Stacking Partners

MOTS-cAOD-9604TesofensineSemaglutide

Mechanism

LL-37 is a 37-residue amphipathic helical antimicrobial peptide, the only human cathelicidin, that kills bacteria by forming tetrameric channels that perforate cytoplasmic membranes. Beyond direct antimicrobial activity, it modulates innate immunity through formyl-peptide receptor 2 (FPR2), induces chemotaxis of neutrophils and monocytes, upregulates CXCR4 and IL-8, and neutralizes bacterial endotoxins (LPS). It also promotes wound healing through keratinocyte migration and angiogenesis.

Standard Dosing

Research indicates 50-100 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection for immune support.

Timing

Morning administration preferred for immune support. Topical application directly to wound sites.

Cycle Duration

4-8 week cycles. Short-term use preferred due to limited long-term safety data.

Side Effects

  • Injection site pain and redness
  • Localized inflammation
  • Potential mast cell activation

Contraindications

  • Active autoimmune conditions (particularly lupus — LL-37 is implicated in SLE pathophysiology)
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Psoriasis (may exacerbate)

Best Stacking Partners

KPVThymosin Alpha-1BPC-157

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