Humanin
Research OnlyAlso known as: HN, HNG, S14G-Humanin, HN peptide, Colivelin
A 24-amino acid mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) discovered in 2001 that shows cytoprotective, anti-apoptotic, and neuroprotective effects in preclinical studies. Represents a novel class of signaling molecules encoded within mitochondrial DNA. Extensive academic research with emerging interest in aging, metabolic disease, and neurodegeneration, but no approved clinical applications.
Research Statistics
Emerging mitochondrial peptide with growing international interest; FPRL2/GP78 signaling mechanism proposed with some supporting data but predominantly preclinical.
Research Dossier
Overview
What is Humanin and what does the research say?
Mechanism of Action
Humanin is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) discovered in 2001 through its ability to rescue cells from Alzheimer’s-related death. It represents a novel class of signaling molecules encoded within mitochondrial DNA.
How It Works (Simplified)
Humanin protects cells through multiple complementary mechanisms:
Binds FPRL1/2 receptors, activating ERK1/2 and STAT3 pathways that promote cell survival and inhibit apoptosis.
Directly binds pro-apoptotic BAX protein, preventing mitochondrial permeabilization and blocking the death cascade.
Improves mitochondrial function, reduces oxidative stress, and prevents cytochrome c release from damaged mitochondria.
Binds IGFBP-3 to modulate insulin-like growth factor signaling, with implications for metabolism and aging.
Scientific Pathways
FPRL Receptor Signaling (Anti-Apoptotic)
Humanin → FPRL1/2 receptor → Gαi/o coupling → ERK1/2 activation
↓
STAT3 signaling
↓
Anti-apoptotic gene expressionBAX Inhibition Pathway (Cytoprotection)
Humanin → Direct BAX binding → Blocks BAX oligomerization
↓
Prevents mitochondrial permeabilization
↓
Inhibits cytochrome c release → Cell survivalKey Research: Hashimoto Y et al. (2001) discovered humanin through functional screening for factors that rescue cells from FAD gene toxicity. PMID:11408622
Important Limitations
- No therapeutic trials — Despite 20+ years of research, no human treatment studies
- Complex biology — Multiple mechanisms complicate drug development
- Cancer question — Anti-apoptotic effects could theoretically promote tumor survival
- Delivery challenges — Peptide stability and pharmacokinetics not optimized
- All human data correlative — Biomarker studies, not cause-and-effect
Evidence-Chained Benefits
Evidence-Chained Benefits
Research findings linked to mechanisms and clinical outcomes
What to Expect
Timeline based on observations from published studies. Individual responses may vary.
Humanin binds FPRL receptors rapidly, activating ERK1/2 and STAT3 signaling within minutes. Anti-apoptotic effects are immediate in cellular models. In vivo distribution and kinetics not fully characterized.
Preclinical studies typically administer humanin or HNG for days to weeks. Neuroprotective effects in AD models observed over weeks of treatment. Metabolic improvements in diabetic mice seen within weeks.
Endogenous humanin levels decline with age (from higher levels in youth to lower in elderly). Long-term effects of exogenous supplementation are not characterized. No human chronic administration data available.
Research-Based Observations
This timeline reflects observations from published clinical and preclinical studies. Individual responses may vary significantly. This is not a guarantee of effects or a dosing schedule. Consult qualified healthcare providers for personalized guidance.
Quality Checklist
Visual indicators to help evaluate Humanin product quality
Good Signs (6 indicators)
Warning Signs (5 indicators)
Bad Signs (5 indicators)
For Research Evaluation Only
These quality indicators are general guidelines based on typical peptide characteristics. Professional laboratory testing (HPLC, mass spectrometry) provides definitive quality verification. This checklist is for initial visual evaluation only.
Peptide Interactions
Known and theoretical interactions when combining Humanin with other peptides. Based on published research and mechanistic considerations.
Mots-C
SynergisticBoth are mitochondria-derived peptides with complementary mechanisms. Humanin is cytoprotective while MOTS-c is metabolic. May provide synergistic longevity benefits through different pathways.
Ss-31
CompatibleBoth target mitochondrial function. SS-31 acts on cardiolipin while humanin signals through FPRL receptors. Non-overlapping mechanisms with potential complementary benefits.
Epithalon
CompatibleDifferent anti-aging mechanisms - humanin provides cytoprotection while epithalon targets telomerase. No known interactions.
BPC-157
CompatibleDifferent protective mechanisms - humanin acts on apoptosis pathways while BPC-157 promotes angiogenesis and tissue repair.
Cerebrolysin
CompatibleBoth have neuroprotective properties through different mechanisms. Humanin inhibits apoptosis while cerebrolysin provides neurotrophic factors.
Research Note: Interaction data is based on published literature, mechanistic understanding, and theoretical considerations. Most peptide combinations lack direct clinical study. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare providers.
References
Key Studies Cited
Full reference list available on request. All citations link to PubMed for verification.
Methodology Note
This dossier synthesizes available evidence from peer-reviewed literature, regulatory documents, and clinical trial registries. Evidence strength ratings follow a modified GRADE approach.
For complete methodology details, see our Methodology page.
Important Disclaimer
This dossier is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.
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Related Content
MOTS-c
Longevity · low evidence
SS-31
Longevity · moderate evidence
Epithalon
Longevity · low evidence
What is Humanin?
An introduction to humanin, a naturally occurring mitochondr...
Epithalon vs Humanin
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Humanin vs SHLP-6
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