Humanin
Humanin (HN) is a cutting-edge Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide (MDP) encoded directly within mitochondrial DNA, functioning as an absolute biological shield against programmed cell death (apoptosis). Discovered relatively recently in the brains of Alzheimer's patients who mysteriously evaded neural decay, Humanin is aggressively deployed in advanced cognitive protocols to protect the brain against neurotoxic insults, severe ischemic strokes, and age-related Beta-Amyloid plaque buildup, ensuring total neuronal survival under extreme oxidative stress.
Quick Stats
Scientific Data
Mechanism of Action
Humanin (HN) is a 24-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP), encoded by the 16S ribosomal RNA gene in mitochondrial DNA. It is the founding member of the mitokine family alongside MOTS-c and SHLPs (Small Humanin-Like Peptides).
Humanin exerts potent cytoprotective effects: it blocks apoptosis by binding IGFBP-3 and BAX (pro-apoptotic proteins), activates STAT3 signaling for cell survival, and provides neuroprotection against β-amyloid toxicity (Alzheimer's disease models). It also improves insulin sensitivity and reduces systemic inflammation through IL-6 modulation. Circulating humanin levels decline ~40% per decade after age 20, correlating with increased susceptibility to metabolic and neurodegenerative disease. Higher humanin levels in centenarians suggest its role in extreme longevity.
Source: PMID: 11555613
Background & History
Humanin is a 21-amino-acid mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) discovered in 2001 by Nishimoto et al. (BBRC) while screening a human brain cDNA library for factors protecting against Alzheimer's-related neuronal death. It is encoded in the 16S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA — like MOTS-c — making both of these peptides part of the emerging class of "mitokines" (mitochondria-derived signaling peptides). Circulating humanin levels decline with age and predict metabolic and cognitive health outcomes.
Research Use Cases
- ✓Alzheimer's disease neuroprotection (the original discovery context)
- ✓Insulin sensitization and type 2 diabetes prevention
- ✓Cardiovascular protection during ischemia
- ✓Longevity: circulating humanin is a positive longevity biomarker
- ✓Testicular function preservation during chemotherapy
Dosing Protocol
| Typical Dose | 1-5 mg/day (research) |
| Frequency | 1× daily |
| Half-Life | ~30 minutes |
| Common Vial Sizes | 5 mg |
Dosing Protocols
Research Protocol
Body-Weight Dosing Reference
Estimated doses extrapolated from the published research range of 1000–5000 mcg/day (referenced to 70 kg / 154 lb). These are approximations — consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised guidance.
| Weight | Low Dose | Target Dose | High Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 lb(54 kg) | 771 mcg | 2314 mcg | 3857 mcg |
| 140 lb(63 kg) | 900 mcg | 2700 mcg | 4500 mcg |
| 160 lb(73 kg) | 1043 mcg | 3129 mcg | 5214 mcg |
| 180 lb(82 kg) | 1171 mcg | 3514 mcg | 5857 mcg |
| 200 lb(91 kg) | 1300 mcg | 3900 mcg | 6500 mcg |
| 220 lb(100 kg) | 1429 mcg | 4286 mcg | 7143 mcg |
| 250 lb(113 kg) | 1614 mcg | 4843 mcg | 8071 mcg |
💉 For exact syringe units based on your vial concentration, use the Humanin Reconstitution Calculator →
Administration
Expected Timeline
Who Is It For?
Neuroprotection / Alzheimer's Prevention
LowStrong evidence in animal models for β-amyloid protection. Human data is preliminary.
Longevity / Mitochondrial Health
LowCentenarian data suggests correlation with extreme longevity. Mechanism is well-characterized.
Metabolic Health
LowImproves insulin sensitivity in animal models. Human dosing protocols are not yet established.
Reconstitution Example
Safety & Considerations
Endogenous mitochondrial peptide. Limited human clinical data — research peptide status. Favorable preclinical safety profile. May affect insulin sensitivity; monitor if diabetic. Use with medical supervision.
Regulatory & Legal Status
Not currently on the WADA 2026 Prohibited List. Policies may change — verify before competition.
Research Chemical
US Compounding: Not eligible / not available
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulatory updates. Always verify with official FDA, WADA, and jurisdiction-specific sources before use.
Interactions & Contraindications
Limited human safety data. IGF-1 receptor signaling involvement — potential theoretical interaction with IGF-1 LR3. No significant drug interactions documented in available research. Injectable form preferred (oral stability uncertain).
Synergies & Common Stacks
Both are mitochondrial-derived peptides with complementary effects: MOTS-c optimizes metabolic function; Humanin provides cytoprotection and apoptosis inhibition. Core mitochondrial peptide stack.
SS-31 protects the inner mitochondrial membrane; Humanin signals systemically as a cytoprotective mitokine. Comprehensive mitochondrial health and protection.
Dosing Quick Reference
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Humanin related to MOTS-c?▼
Why do Humanin levels decline with age?▼
References
- Hashimoto Y et al. “"Humanin: A Novel Neuroprotective Factor".” Science (2001). PMID: 11239415
📚 Related Articles
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