Comparison
Epitalon 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.
307297-39-8
597562-32-8
Molecular weight
390.35 g/mol
4493.33 g/mol
Half-life
0.3 h
no data
Sequence
Ala-Glu-Asp-GlyLLGDFFRKSKEKIGKEFKRIVQRIKDFLRNLVPRTESMechanism of action
Epitalon
Postulated mechanisms include modulation of gene expression in pinealocytes, telomerase activation (observed in cell culture studies) and influence on melatonin synthesis. A defined primary receptor is not established; the mechanistic basis rests on in-vitro and animal data from the Khavinson group.
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 trial
Human trial
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
1
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 Epitalon and LL-37?
- Epitalon is classified as "Research other", while LL-37 is classified as "Research other". Epitalon: Synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) derived from the pineal extract epithalamin (V. Khavinson, St. Petersburg). Investigated in the Russian research and anti-ageing context; Western controlled trials are largely absent. No medicines approval in EU or US. 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, Epitalon or LL-37?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for Epitalon 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 Epitalon and LL-37 in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Epitalon — Unapproved, LL-37 — Research only. United States: Epitalon — Unapproved, LL-37 — Research only. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.