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Indolicidin
Overview
Indolicidin is a 13-amino acid antimicrobial peptide derived from bovine neutrophils, characterized by a high tryptophan content (five residues). It exerts antimicrobial activity through multiple mechanisms, including membrane disruption, DNA binding, and inhibition of intracellular processes.
Mechanism of Action
The peptide adopts an extended wedge-shaped conformation that facilitates insertion into lipid bilayers. Indolicidin demonstrates activity against bacteria, fungi, and certain protozoa, though its clinical development has been limited by cytotoxicity.
Research Summary & Key Findings
Preclinical studies in vitro and in murine infection models have demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, including against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Candida species. Structural analogs with reduced mammalian cell toxicity have been synthesized and tested in rodent wound infection models with promising results. No clinical trials in humans have been reported to date, and the peptide remains in the research phase.
Clinical Status
Indolicidin is in the research phase with limited clinical data in humans. Current evidence is primarily derived from preclinical (animal or in vitro) studies.
Administration Routes
References
Primary literature
- PubMed: "Indolicidin"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
- ClinicalTrials.gov: "Indolicidin"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
- PubChem: "Indolicidin"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.
Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.
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View detailsNo lawful pathway today
Indolicidin is not FDA-approved and does not currently have a lawful prescription or compounding pathway in the United States, so there is nothing for us to sell you here and no consultation to book. That can change: eight peptides moved back to a lawful pathway in February 2026.
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One email, only if this compound's regulatory standing actually moves. Not a newsletter, not a sales sequence.
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List Your PracticeDisclaimer: This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide therapy. The Peptide Association does not endorse or recommend any specific treatment protocol. See our editorial policy for how this content is produced and reviewed.