Humanin
Also known as: Humanin, HNG, Humanin-G
Humanin is a mitochondrial-derived peptide studied for its cytoprotective, neuroprotective, and metabolic effects. The HNG (Humanin-G) analog is a more potent variant frequently used in research.
Last updated
Mechanism of Action
Humanin is encoded within the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene and acts as a mitochondrial-derived peptide with broad cytoprotective signaling. It binds a trimeric cell-surface receptor (CNTFR/WSX-1/gp130) and the formyl peptide receptor FPRL1, activating STAT3 and other pro-survival pathways while inhibiting Bax-mediated apoptosis. It improves insulin sensitivity, reduces oxidative stress, and protects neurons and other cells against metabolic and amyloid-beta-induced toxicity in preclinical models.
- Half-life
- Short for native humanin; analogs such as HNG are more stable but data are limited
- Administration Routes
- subcutaneous, intraperitoneal
- Research Status
- Preclinical
Reported Benefits
- Cytoprotective and anti-apoptotic signaling
- Neuroprotection in amyloid-beta and ischemia models
- Improves insulin sensitivity and glucose handling
- Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation
- Supports mitochondrial and metabolic resilience
- Studied for cardiovascular and longevity-related endpoints
Potential Side Effects
- Limited human data; safety profile not well established
- Possible injection-site reactions
- Theoretical effects on glucose regulation
Common Dosing
Research-use only, not medical advice. Dosing is derived from animal studies and is typically weight-based (micrograms per kilogram); standardized human research protocols are not established.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding due to lack of data
- Known hypersensitivity to the peptide
- Use without research oversight in those with metabolic disorders
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Epitalon
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NAD+
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Humanin: a harbinger of mitochondrial-derived peptides?
2013
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A rescue factor abolishing neuronal cell death by a wide spectrum of familial Alzheimer's disease genes and Abeta
2001
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Humanin: a novel central regulator of peripheral insulin action
2009
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The mitochondrial derived peptide humanin is a regulator of lifespan and healthspan
2020