What Is Humanin? — Mechanism, Research & Safety

Overview

Humanin is classified as a mitochondrial peptide peptide. Neuroprotection, anti-apoptosis, insulin sensitization, longevity, Alzheimer's protection.

21-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MOTS-c sibling peptide) encoded in the 16S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA. Binds formyl peptide receptor-like 1 (FPRL1/FPR2) and the gp130 co-receptor complex, activating STAT3 and PI3K/Akt survival signaling. Potently inhibits Bax-mediated apoptosis, protects neurons against amyloid-beta toxicity, and improves insulin sensitivity. Circulating levels decline significantly with age.

Also known as: HN, Humanin-G, S14G-Humanin

How Does Humanin Work?

At the molecular level, Humanin operates through pathways characteristic of the Mitochondrial Peptide class, interacting with target receptors and downstream signaling cascades to produce its observed effects.

Published Research

The following studies are indexed from PubMed and peer-reviewed journals:

[1]Humanin: a neuroprotective peptide against Alzheimer's disease

Hashimoto et al. (Nature): Discovery paper identifying Humanin as a secreted peptide from surviving neurons that protects against Alzheimer's disease-related insults including amyloid-beta toxicity and familial AD gene expression.

Evidence: preclinical

[2]Humanin declines with age and is associated with age-related diseases

Muzumdar et al.: Demonstrates that circulating Humanin levels decline progressively with age in humans, and low levels are associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk and insulin resistance.

Evidence: emerging

[3]Exogenous Humanin improves insulin sensitivity and reduces inflammation

Muzumdar et al.: Exogenous Humanin administration in rodents improves insulin sensitivity, reduces hepatic glucose production, and attenuates systemic inflammation, establishing its metabolic effects.

Evidence: preclinical

Safety Profile

⚠ PRECLINICAL RESEARCH ONLY for therapeutic use. No completed human clinical trials for exogenous administration. Endogenous peptide with well-established biology; exogenous therapeutic use remains experimental. S14G-Humanin is a more potent synthetic analog.

Side Effect	Incidence	Severity
Unknown in humans	Not established	rare

Sourcing Humanin for Research

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Full Research Profile

Humanin — dosing, interactions, timelines & more

Comprehensive compound profile with sourcing information, stacking synergies, and outcome timelines.