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 — systemic distribution
Most common administration route for research peptides. Inject into abdominal fat, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate sites. standard research dose.
Intramuscular Injection High — with slightly faster onset than SC
Alternative route when deeper delivery or faster absorption is desired. Less commonly used than SC for most research peptides.
Read our full Routes of Administration Guide for detailed comparison of all delivery methods.
Stacking Protocols
Popular research stacks involving Humanin:
Longevity Stack
Humanin combined with telomere-supporting Epithalon and NAD+ precursors for broad longevity protocol. Cycled over 10-20 day blocks.
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
Safety & Contraindications
This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide.
Pregnancy / Lactation
Bleeding Disorders
Active Skin Infection at Injection Site
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-Life | ~30 minutes (native); analogs (HNG, colivelin) longer |
|---|---|
| Storage | Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C (long-term) or 2-8°C (short-term, under 30 days). Reconstituted: refrigerate at 2-8°C and use within 28-30 days. Protect from light. Do not freeze reconstituted solution. |
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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