Humanin
Also known as: HN, HNG (potent analog), Mitochondrial Derived Peptide 1
Overview
Humanin is a 21-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded by the 16S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA. It was the first MDP discovered, originally identified in neurons surviving from Alzheimer's disease-affected brain tissue, and has since been shown to have cytoprotective, neuroprotective, and anti-aging effects across multiple tissues. Humanin levels decline with age and are reduced in diseases including Alzheimer's and MELAS syndrome. A potent analog, HNG (where Ser14 is replaced by Gly), shows approximately 1000-fold greater potency.
Mechanism of Action
Humanin acts through multiple receptors and pathways: (1) binding to trimeric receptor complexes including CNTFR, WSX-1, and gp130, activating JAK/STAT3 and MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling; (2) activation of AKT1 kinase promoting cell survival; (3) reduction of mitochondrial ROS, protecting against amyloid-beta mitochondrial toxicity; (4) boosting chaperone-mediated autophagy via lysosomal localization; (5) reduction of fibril formation and Aβ-induced toxicity; (6) reversal of cardiomyocyte apoptosis in aged hearts via reduction of mitochondrial dysfunction.
Potential Benefits
- Neuroprotection against amyloid-beta and Alzheimer's-related toxicity
- Prevention of age-related cognitive decline in mouse models
- Cardioprotection including reversal of cardiomyocyte apoptosis in aging
- Reduction in midlife adiposity and increased lean body mass
- Mitochondrial ROS reduction
- Small but significant lifespan extension in C. elegans via daf-16/FOXO pathway
- Protection against heat-shock stress in yeast models
- Potential Parkinson's disease neuroprotection
Dosage Protocols
The following reflects doses used in published research studies. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| Typical Range | 2-10 mg/week |
| Beginner | 2 mg once or twice weekly |
| Intermediate | 5 mg twice weekly |
| Advanced | 10 mg twice weekly; HNG (S14G-Humanin) analog effective at lower doses |
| Cycle Duration | 4-8 weeks |
| Cycle Off | 4 weeks |
HNG (S14G-Humanin), the more potent analog, is active at approximately 100-1000x lower concentrations than native Humanin. Research protocols are extrapolated from preclinical data. Often combined with other mitochondrial peptides.
Use our Reconstitution Calculator to determine exact syringe units for your protocol.
Routes of Administration
Subcutaneous Injection High
Primary research route; systemic cytoprotective and anti-apoptotic effects
Intramuscular Injection High
Alternative; comparable systemic distribution
Read our full Routes of Administration Guide for detailed comparison of all delivery methods.
Stacking Protocols
Popular research stacks involving Humanin:
Mitochondrial Longevity Stack
Mitochondria-targeted cytoprotection, energy optimization, and cellular aging reduction
Humanin reduces apoptosis, MOTS-c drives biogenesis and metabolism, SS-31 protects cristae integrity. Complementary mitochondrial targets.
Neuroprotection Stack
Multi-target neuroprotection against Alzheimer's pathology and neurodegeneration
Humanin directly inhibits Aβ cytotoxicity; Semax provides BDNF-driven neuroprotection; NAD+ supports neuronal mitochondrial function.
Explore our complete Peptide Stacking Guide for more combinations and safety considerations.
Reconstitution
| Typical Vial Size | 5mg, 10mg |
|---|---|
| BAC Water | 1-2ml per 5mg vial |
| Storage | Refrigerate at 2-8°C after reconstitution |
| Shelf Life | 28 days refrigerated |
Need exact syringe measurements?
Amino Acid Sequence
MAPRGFSCLLLLTSEIDLPVKRRA (21 amino acids); HNG: MAPRGFSCLLLLTSEIDLPVKRRG (S14G substitution)
Side Effects & Safety
- Minimal known adverse effects in preclinical studies
- Theoretical growth-promoting effects via IGF-1 axis interaction
- Limited human safety data
Synergistic Compounds
The following compounds have been studied alongside Humanin for potential complementary or synergistic effects:
Learn More
References & Further Reading
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