Cortexin vs LL-37 (Cathelicidin)
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Cortexin
Cortexin is a polypeptide complex derived from pig brain cortex, used clinically in Russia and Eastern Europe for neurological conditions including stroke recovery, traumatic brain injury, and cognitive decline.
Full details →LL-37 (Cathelicidin)
LL-37 is the only human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide. It plays crucial roles in innate immunity and has shown diverse biological activities including antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and wound healing properties.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Cortexin | LL-37 (Cathelicidin) |
|---|---|---|
| Dose Range | 10 mg–20 mg | 500 mcg–1.6 mg |
| Frequency | 1x daily | 1x daily |
| Cycle Length | 1–2 weeks | 2–4 weeks |
| Route | intramuscular | topical |
| Mechanism | Contains a mixture of neuropeptides and amino acids that support neuronal metabolism, provide neuroprotection, and enhance synaptic transmission. Specific mechanisms not fully characterized. | Disrupts bacterial membranes, neutralizes endotoxins, modulates immune cell function, and promotes wound healing. Has both direct antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. |
| Typical Dosage | Clinical protocols: 10mg intramuscularly once daily for 10-20 days. May be repeated after 3-6 month interval. | Research protocols vary widely. Typical ranges: 50-200mcg administered subcutaneously 2-3 times weekly. Some protocols use higher doses for acute infections. |
| Administration | Intramuscular injection. Comes as lyophilized powder requiring reconstitution. Treatment given in courses rather than continuously. | Subcutaneous injection. Can cause significant injection site reactions. Often used in conjunction with other immune-supporting protocols. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. May cause injection site reactions or mild allergic responses in sensitive individuals. | Injection site pain and reactions are common. May cause flu-like symptoms, temporary fatigue, or immune activation responses. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Cortexin, LL-37 (Cathelicidin) are both commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to Cortexin:
Which Has Stronger Evidence?
| Goal | Cortexin | LL-37 (Cathelicidin) |
|---|---|---|
| Recovery & Healing | medium | medium |
Key Studies
Cortexin
- [Cortexin in the comprehensive therapy of alcoholic encephalopathy].
Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova, 2026
- Cortexin modulates OPG/RANK/RANKL and TRPC1 expression in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Neurological research, 2026
- Neurotropic Effects of Cortexin on Models of Mental and Physical Developmental Delay.
Biomedicines, 2025
LL-37 (Cathelicidin)
- Cathelicidin LL-37 Expression in Human Breast Implant Capsules.
Plastic and reconstructive surgery, 2024
- Salivary Cathelicidin (LL-37) in Children and Adolescents Living with HIV.
Biomedicine hub, 2024
- Antifungal properties of cathelicidin LL-37: current knowledge and future research directions.
World journal of microbiology & biotechnology, 2023
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