Comparison
Cerebrolysin vs. LL-37
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
96889-70-6
597562-32-8
Molecular weight
no data
4493.33 g/mol
Half-life
no data
no data
Sequence
no data
LLGDFFRKSKEKIGKEFKRIVQRIKDFLRNLVPRTESMechanism of action
Cerebrolysin
Cerebrolysin is a mixture of low-molecular-weight peptides (predominantly below 10 kDa) and free amino acids obtained by enzymatic cleavage of lipid-free porcine brain proteins. The manufacturer and preclinical literature describe a neurotrophic and neuroprotective mode of action said to mimic endogenous neurotrophic factors; cell and animal models have reported effects on neuronal survival, synaptogenesis and anti-apoptotic signalling (including PI3K/Akt). Because it is a complex, incompletely characterised mixture, the precise mechanism in humans remains unclear.
LL-37
LL-37 is a cationic, amphipathic helical peptide and the only member of the cathelicidin family in humans. It is generated by proteolytic cleavage from the C-terminal portion of the precursor protein hCAP18 (CAP-18). Mechanistically it associates with and can permeabilize microbial membranes; in addition it modulates immune cells, influences cytokine release, exerts chemotactic activity, and can bind extracellular self-DNA. Preclinical models have described both anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory effects, depending on concentration and tissue context.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human trial
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
4
1
Effects recorded
4
4
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
0
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Cerebrolysin and LL-37?
- Cerebrolysin is classified as "Research other", while LL-37 is classified as "Research other". Cerebrolysin: Cerebrolysin (FPF-1070) is not a single peptide but a porcine-brain-derived preparation of low-molecular-weight peptides and free amino acids, produced by standardised enzymatic proteolysis. It is approved in several countries (including Austria, Russia and parts of Asia) for stroke, dementia and traumatic brain injury, but is not FDA-approved in the United States and not centrally approved by the EMA. Its efficacy is contested: Cochrane systematic reviews found no convincing benefit and flagged possible harm signals. LL-37: LL-37 is the only known human cathelicidin, a 37-amino-acid antimicrobial peptide generated by cleavage of the precursor protein hCAP18. In research it plays a central role in innate immune defence and wound healing, yet acts in a context-dependent manner as both anti- and pro-inflammatory and has been linked to autoimmune processes. LL-37 is not an approved drug; the evidence base is predominantly basic and preclinical. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Cerebrolysin or LL-37?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Cerebrolysin and "Human trial" for LL-37. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Cerebrolysin and LL-37 in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Cerebrolysin — Unclear, LL-37 — Research only. United States: Cerebrolysin — Unapproved, LL-37 — Research only. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.