Research Only Immune & Anti-Inflammatory

Cecropin

also known as: Cecropin A, Cecropin B, Cecropin P1

The insect immune system's first-line antibiotic — among the earliest AMPs discovered, proving innate immunity uses peptide weapons across the animal kingdom.

A family of 35-39-amino-acid cationic alpha-helical antimicrobial peptides from the cecropia moth that kill Gram-negative bacteria by membrane disruption without significant mammalian cell toxicity.

Mechanism of action

Two-helix structure: N-terminal helix binds bacterial membrane surface, C-terminal helix inserts into the hydrophobic core. Acts via the 'carpet model' — lining membranes until threshold causes micelle-like dissolution. Highly selective for bacterial membranes.

Primary uses

Research: model AMP for innate immunity
Template for hybrid AMP design
Agricultural biotechnology: transgenic disease resistance

Typical dosing

N/A N/A N/A (research only)

Research MICs 1-10 mcM against Gram-negative pathogens.

Regulatory status

Not approved. No cecropin derivatives have reached clinical trials as of 2026.

References

[pubmed] Steiner H, et al. "Sequence and specificity of two antibacterial proteins involved in insect immunity." Nature. 1981;292(5820):246-248.
[review] Boman HG. "Antibacterial peptides: basic facts and emerging concepts." J Intern Med. 2003;254(3):197-215.

Related peptides

Magainin

The frog-skin peptide that launched antimicrobial peptide research — discovered in 1987 when a researcher noticed surgical frogs never developed infections.

Melittin

The main weapon in bee venom — a powerful membrane-disrupting peptide being repurposed as an antimicrobial and anticancer research tool.

LL-37

The only human cathelicidin — an antimicrobial peptide with direct activity against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and biofilms, with additional roles in wound healing and immune signaling.

Cathelicidin

The parent of LL-37 — the sole human cathelicidin, whose expression is directly regulated by vitamin D and whose cleavage product LL-37 is a key effector of innate antimicrobial defense.

Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.