Category: immune_innate
Two functional categories. (1) Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) — cathelicidin (LL-37) + defensins as innate immune effectors; pore formation in bacterial membranes; some research-stage as antibiotic adjuncts. KPV (lysine-proline-valine, α-MSH fragment) — anti-inflammatory peptide; topical IBD + dermatitis claim. Larazotide — zonulin antagonist; restores intestinal tight junctions; phase 3 celiac disease. (2) Cosmetic peptides — argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-3) is a SNAP-25 fragment that competitively inhibits SNARE complex → blunts muscle contraction → "topical Botox" mechanism (modest signal). Matrixyl (palmitoyl pentapeptide-4) → procollagen + hyaluronic acid synthesis upregulation. SNAP-8 / SNAP-29 — argireline analogs.