Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| LL-37 (Cathelicidin) | SS-31 (Elamipretide) | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Peptides | Peptides |
| Standard Dose | Research indicates 50-100 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection for immune support. | Research indicates 0.05-0.25 mg/kg daily via subcutaneous injection. Clinical trials used 4-40 mg/day IV or SC. |
| Timing | Morning administration preferred for immune support. Topical application directly to wound sites. | Morning dosing preferred. No food timing restrictions. |
| Cycle Duration | 4-8 week cycles. Short-term use preferred due to limited long-term safety data. | Clinical trials ranged from single dose to 48 weeks. Optimal cycle length not established. |
| Evidence Level | animal_plus_anecdotal | Emerging (Phase 2/3 trials) |
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.
SS-31 (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2, also known as elamipretide/Bendavia) is a cell-permeable tetrapeptide that localizes to the inner mitochondrial membrane and binds cardiolipin via electrostatic interactions. This stabilizes cardiolipin against oxidative damage, preserving cristae integrity, reducing ROS production, and maintaining mitochondrial ATP production. SS-31 interacts with proteins in two functional groups: oxidative phosphorylation complexes and 2-oxoglutarate metabolic enzymes — all known cardiolipin binders. It restores mitochondrial function without acting as a direct antioxidant.
Research indicates 0.05-0.25 mg/kg daily via subcutaneous injection. Clinical trials used 4-40 mg/day IV or SC.
Morning dosing preferred. No food timing restrictions.
Clinical trials ranged from single dose to 48 weeks. Optimal cycle length not established.
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