Lactoferrin vs Thymulin
A side-by-side research comparison of Lactoferrin and Thymulin across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Lactoferrin | Thymulin |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Lactoferrin (Iron-Binding Glycoprotein) | Thymulin (Facteur Thymique Serique) |
| Category | Immune Support | Immune Support |
| Status | Dietary supplement (GRAS) | Research compound |
| Mechanism | Sequesters iron from pathogens (bacteriostatic), directly disrupts bacterial membranes, activates NK cells and macrophages, and modulates inflammatory cytokines. | Binds to specific receptors on T-cell precursors promoting their differentiation into mature T-cells, modulates cytokine production, and requires zinc as cofactor. |
| Molecular weight | 80000 Da | 847.9 Da |
| Half-life | ~4-8 hours (oral absorption of fragments) | ~2 hours |
| Bioavailability | ~15-25% (oral, as bioactive fragments) | ~80% subcutaneous |
| Typical dose | 200-600 mg | 1-5 mg |
| Frequency | 1-2x daily | 2-3x per week |
| Route | Oral capsule or powder | Subcutaneous injection |
Lactoferrin reported benefits
- Broad antimicrobial activity
- Iron homeostasis regulation
- Gut immune support
- Anti-biofilm properties
- Prebiotic effects
Thymulin reported benefits
- T-cell maturation support
- Thymic function restoration
- Zinc-dependent immune activation
- Anti-inflammatory properties
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.