Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment (TB4-Frag 17-23) vs Thymosin Alpha-1
A neutral, side-by-side comparison of two healing & recovery peptides — their mechanisms, dosing ranges, administration routes, side effects, and research evidence. For research and educational purposes only.
Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment (TB4-Frag 17-23)
The heptapeptide fragment (amino acids 17–23) of full thymosin beta-4, sequence Ac-LKKTETQ. This sequence is the active actin-binding domain responsible for TB-500's tissue repair properties. Shorter molecular weight than TB-500 enables more targeted delivery while retaining identical mechanism of action on G-actin regulation and tissue repair signaling.
Full profileThymosin Alpha-1
Thymosin Alpha-1 (Tα1) is a 28-amino acid peptide naturally derived from the thymus gland. It plays a central role in regulating immune function — specifically in the maturation and differentiation of T-cells. Unlike most research peptides, Thymosin Alpha-1 has approved clinical use in multiple countries (China, Italy, and others) for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and as an immune adjuvant in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. In the US it is sold as Zadaxin and used as a research compound.
Full profile| Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment (TB4-Frag 17-23) | Thymosin Alpha-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Healing & Recovery | Healing & Recovery |
| Also known as | TB4 fragment 17-23, TB-500 active peptide, LKKTETQ, thymosin beta-4 fragment, Ac-LKKTETQ | Tα1, Thymalfasin, Zadaxin |
| Evidence | Research-stage | Research-stage |
| Dosing range | 250mcg–1mg mcg–mg, 2–3x weekly | 900mcg–3.2mg mg, 2–3 times per week subcutaneously |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, Intramuscular injection | Subcutaneous injection |
| Key side effects | Injection site irritation, Mild fatigue (transient), Potential headache, Generally well-tolerated in research applications | Generally very well tolerated, Mild injection site reactions (most common), Transient fatigue in initial doses, Flu-like symptoms (rare) |
| Cited sources | 2 references | 4 references |
Key differences
- Administration: Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment (TB4-Frag 17-23) — Subcutaneous injection, Intramuscular injection; Thymosin Alpha-1 — Subcutaneous injection.
- Dosing units differ: Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment (TB4-Frag 17-23) is dosed in mcg–mg, Thymosin Alpha-1 in mg — they operate at different scales.
- Frequency: Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment (TB4-Frag 17-23) is typically 2–3x weekly; Thymosin Alpha-1 is 2–3 times per week subcutaneously.
- Research depth: this profile cites 2 sources for Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment (TB4-Frag 17-23) vs 4 for Thymosin Alpha-1.
How each works
Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment (TB4-Frag 17-23)
The LKKTETQ sequence was identified in 1994 as the minimum active fragment of thymosin beta-4 responsible for its actin-sequestering and tissue repair activity. This heptapeptide competes with actin monomer binding proteins, promoting cell migration, angiogenesis, and wound healing. Studies confirm it recapitulates the key bioactivity of full TB4 in cell migration and collagen deposition assays.
Thymosin Alpha-1
Extensive human clinical research documents Tα1's immune-modulating effects. It increases T-cell counts, enhances NK cell activity, and promotes Th1 cytokine balance. Multiple randomized trials have shown efficacy in treating chronic hepatitis B and C, reducing infection severity in critically ill patients, and improving outcomes in sepsis. More recent research investigates its role in long COVID immune dysregulation. It is considered one of the best-studied peptides in immunology.
This comparison aggregates public research and structured profile data for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not recommend either compound for human use. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before considering any peptide.