Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| Humanin | LL-37 (Cathelicidin) | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Peptides | Peptides |
| Standard Dose | Research indicates dosing remains experimental. Animal studies use 1-10 mcg/day equivalents. Human protocols are not established. | Research indicates 50-100 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection for immune support. |
| Timing | No established timing protocol. Morning dosing suggested for neuroprotective applications. | Morning administration preferred for immune support. Topical application directly to wound sites. |
| Cycle Duration | Experimental — no established cycle lengths. | 4-8 week cycles. Short-term use preferred due to limited long-term safety data. |
| Evidence Level | animal_plus_anecdotal | animal_plus_anecdotal |
Humanin is a 24-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by the 16S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA. It binds IGFBP-3 with high affinity (via Phe-6), interfering with IGFBP-3 binding to importin-beta and suppressing IGFBP-3-mediated apoptosis. It also inhibits the pro-apoptotic protein Bax (Bcl-2 family), preventing mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization and intrinsic apoptosis. Humanin and IGFBP-3 synergistically protect neurons from amyloid-beta-induced apoptosis, and it activates the STAT3 and ERK1/2 pathways for cytoprotection.
Research indicates dosing remains experimental. Animal studies use 1-10 mcg/day equivalents. Human protocols are not established.
No established timing protocol. Morning dosing suggested for neuroprotective applications.
Experimental — no established cycle lengths.
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.
Research indicates 50-100 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection for immune support.
Morning administration preferred for immune support. Topical application directly to wound sites.
4-8 week cycles. Short-term use preferred due to limited long-term safety data.
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