⚠️ Research Use Only. This post is educational and does not constitute medical advice. All peptides discussed are sold for research purposes only. See our full disclaimer.
Overview
Humanin is a mitochondrial-derived peptide studied for neuroprotection, metabolic regulation, and longevity.
What is Humanin?
Humanin is a 24-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene — one of a small family of mitochondrial-derived peptides that also includes MOTS-c and the SHLP family. It was discovered in 2001 by researchers studying what protected certain neurons from amyloid-beta toxicity in Alzheimer's tissue samples.
The peptide's most striking property is its broad cytoprotective effect. Humanin inhibits the pro-apoptotic protein Bax, modulates IGF binding protein 3, and activates STAT3 signaling — together creating a strong anti-apoptotic, pro-survival signal in stressed cells. Research has examined humanin in models of Alzheimer's disease, ischemic injury, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
One of the more intriguing observations is that circulating humanin levels decline with age in humans. Centenarians and their offspring tend to have higher humanin levels than age-matched controls without longevity history, suggesting a potential biomarker role.
The research peptide market typically sells humanin analogs rather than the native peptide. HNG (S14G-Humanin) has a single amino acid substitution that increases potency roughly 1000-fold and extends half-life. Dosing protocols are not well established for human research use. The clinical translation is at an early stage compared to more established peptides on this list.
Top Research Uses
- Neuroprotection
- Alzheimer's research
- Metabolic regulation
- Anti-apoptotic research
- Longevity
Mechanism of Action
Cytoprotective peptide that binds Bax to prevent apoptosis, modulates IGF-binding protein 3, and activates STAT3 signaling
Research Parameters
| Half-Life | Short; analog variants like HNG (S14G-Humanin) have extended activity |
| Typical Research Dose | Research protocols vary; some use 1-10 mg subq |
| Administration Route | Subcutaneous |
| Reported Side Effects | Limited human data; generally well-tolerated in animal studies |
Dosing ranges cited from published research literature. These are not recommendations for human use. Humanin is a research compound — not for human consumption.
Research Strength: Low-Moderate
Humanin has a small but growing body of research. Most evidence is preclinical with limited human data.
Vendor & Sourcing Notes
Variants like HNG are more potent and more commonly available than native humanin
Always request third-party HPLC purity reports and mass spectrometry verification when sourcing research peptides. Quality varies significantly between suppliers.
Research Use Only — Compliance Notice
The information on this page is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Humanin (Humanin) is a research compound sold for laboratory research purposes only. It has not been approved by the FDA for human use. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice or is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before considering any peptide-related protocols.
