Comparison
Thymalin vs. Thymosin Alpha-1
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Healing
Healing
CAS no.
63958-90-7
62304-98-7
Molecular weight
1000 g/mol
3108.32 g/mol
Half-life
0.5 h
2 h
Sequence
no data
Ac-SDAAVDTSSEITTKDLKEKKEVVEEAENMechanism of action
Thymalin
Thymalin is a complex of multiple polypeptides extracted from bovine or calf thymus. Postulated mechanisms include modulation of T-lymphocyte maturation, influence on interleukin profiles and stimulation of cellular immune response. Being a multi-component preparation, individual mechanisms are difficult to disentangle. Khavinson and colleagues from St Petersburg have described the mechanism over decades in Russian publications.
Thymosin Alpha-1
Thymosin Alpha-1 is an N-terminally acetylated peptide originally isolated from the thymus. It modulates T-lymphocyte maturation and function and acts on dendritic cells via Toll-like receptors (TLR9 / TLR2). In preclinical and some clinical studies, increased interferon-gamma responses and altered T-cell subpopulations have been reported.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human RCT
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
2
4
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Thymalin and Thymosin Alpha-1?
- Thymalin is classified as "Healing", while Thymosin Alpha-1 is classified as "Healing". Thymalin: Complex of low-molecular polypeptides extracted from calf thymus. Approved in Russia since the 1970s as an immunomodulator. The exact composition is not standardised like a synthetic single peptide; Western controlled studies are largely absent. Thymosin Alpha-1: Synthetic 28-amino-acid peptide identical to a naturally occurring thymus peptide. Approved as Zadaxin in more than 30 countries (not US/EU) for hepatitis B treatment and as an immunomodulator. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Thymalin or Thymosin Alpha-1?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for Thymalin and "Human RCT" for Thymosin Alpha-1. 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 Thymalin and Thymosin Alpha-1 in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Thymalin — Unapproved, Thymosin Alpha-1 — Unapproved. United States: Thymalin — Unapproved, Thymosin Alpha-1 — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.