Thymulin vs Alpha-Defensin
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Thymulin
Thymulin (Facteur Thymique Sérique) is a zinc-dependent nonapeptide hormone produced by thymic epithelial cells. It plays important roles in T-cell differentiation and immune system maturation.
Full details →Alpha-Defensin
Alpha-defensins are small cationic peptides that are key components of the innate immune system. They have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Thymulin | Alpha-Defensin |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Requires zinc for biological activity. Promotes T-cell differentiation, modulates cytokine production, and influences neuroendocrine function. Levels decline significantly with age. | Insert into microbial membranes to form pores, leading to cell death. Also have immunomodulatory effects including chemotaxis of immune cells and cytokine modulation. |
| Typical Dosage | Research protocols vary. Often studied alongside zinc supplementation. Typical research doses in the microgram range. | Research compound - dosing varies by application. Typically studied in laboratory and early clinical research settings rather than for general use. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection in research settings. Requires adequate zinc status for activity. | Various routes studied including topical, local injection, and systemic administration depending on application. |
| Side Effects | Limited data on exogenous administration. Theoretical effects on immune function require monitoring. | Limited human use data. May cause local inflammation. Potential for immune activation effects. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Thymulin and Alpha-Defensin are commonly used for: