Humanin (HN)
Mitochondria-Derived Peptide · HN
Overview
Humanin was the first mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) discovered, originally cloned from the occipital lobe of an Alzheimer's patient. It is a 24-amino acid peptide encoded from the 16S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA with potent neuroprotective, cytoprotective, and anti-apoptotic properties. Research shows…
Humanin exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. It interacts with cell surface receptors including FPRL1 and CNTFR, activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathways that promote cell survival. It blocks pro-apoptotic proteins like Bax, reduces beta-amyloid toxicity in neurons, protects against oxidative stress, and…
Originally discovered for its ability to protect against amyloid-β toxicity in neuronal cells.
Promotes mitochondrial biogenesis via PI3K/AKT signaling in PD models.
Broad neuroprotective effects against various neurotoxic insults.
Mechanism
Humanin was the first mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) discovered, originally cloned from the occipital lobe of an Alzheimer's patient. It is a 24-amino acid peptide encoded from the 16S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA with potent neuroprotective, cytoprotective, and anti-apoptotic properties. Research shows…
Humanin exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. It interacts with cell surface receptors including FPRL1 and CNTFR, activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathways that promote cell survival. It blocks pro-apoptotic proteins like Bax, reduces beta-amyloid toxicity in neurons, protects against oxidative stress, and…
Originally discovered for its ability to protect against amyloid-β toxicity in neuronal cells.
Research areas
- Humanin was the first mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) discovered, originally cloned from the occipital lobe of an Alzheimer's patient. It is a 24-amino acid peptide encoded from the 16S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA with potent neuroprotective, cytoprotective, and anti-apoptotic properties. Research shows…
- Humanin exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. It interacts with cell surface receptors including FPRL1 and CNTFR, activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathways that promote cell survival. It blocks pro-apoptotic proteins like Bax, reduces beta-amyloid toxicity in neurons, protects against oxidative stress, and…
- Originally discovered for its ability to protect against amyloid-β toxicity in neuronal cells.
- Promotes mitochondrial biogenesis via PI3K/AKT signaling in PD models.
- Broad neuroprotective effects against various neurotoxic insults.
Research notes
- Injection site reactions
- Signs of allergic reaction
- Unusual persistent symptoms
- Active cancer (theoretical concern with anti-apoptotic effects)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Questions
How is humanin different from the HNG analog?
HNG (with a glycine substitution at position 14) is approximately 1000-fold more potent than native humanin. Both work via the same mitochondrial pathways, but HNG requires much lower doses—typically 0.5-2mg versus 1-5mg for standard humanin.
Is humanin safe for people with a family history of Alzheimer's?
Potentially beneficial. Humanin was originally discovered for its ability to protect against amyloid-beta toxicity. Offspring of centenarians have naturally higher humanin levels. Anyone concerned about neurodegenerative disease might consider humanin as part of a longevity protocol.
Can I combine humanin with other longevity peptides?
Yes. Humanin pairs well with MOTS-c (another mitochondrial-derived peptide), epitalon, and NAD+ precursors. These complement each other through different pathways targeting mitochondrial function, cellular aging, and neuroprotection.