Humanin
Encoded in mitochondrial DNA — cytoprotective peptide declining with age, neuroprotective and anti-apoptotic in preclinical models.
Research facts
| Half-life | ~2–4h |
|---|---|
| Route | SubQ / Nasal |
| Typical dose | 2–4 mg/week |
| Frequency | 2–3× weekly |
| Solvent | Bacteriostatic water |
| pH | 5.5–7.0 |
| Stability | 30 days at +4°C |
Mechanism of action
Humanin is a 21-amino acid peptide encoded in the 16S ribosomal RNA region of mitochondrial DNA — one of only ~30 peptides encoded by the mitochondrial genome. Circulating humanin levels decline progressively with age, correlating with metabolic decline and neurodegenerative disease susceptibility. It acts via three receptor systems: gp130/CNTFR/WSX-1 tripartite receptor complex, single-transmembrane receptor FPRL1/CXCR4, and intracellular binding to IGFBP-3. Via these pathways it suppresses Bax-induced apoptosis, reduces neuronal cell death in Alzheimer's models, improves insulin sensitivity, and protects mitochondrial membrane potential. Centenarian offspring (children of individuals reaching 100+) show significantly higher circulating Humanin levels than age-matched controls, suggesting a longevity association.
Documented effects (research-model)
- Neuroprotection and anti-Alzheimer's effects in animal models
- Anti-apoptotic cytoprotection across multiple cell types
- Insulin sensitivity improvement in preclinical metabolic studies
- Mitochondrial membrane potential protection
- Longevity association (centenarian offspring data)
Research protocols
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Cycle | Vial |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 2 mg 3×/week SubQ | Three times weekly | 8 weeks | 5mg / 2mL BAC water |
Research context only. Not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before any protocol decision.
Synergies
Myths & misconceptions
Evidence gaps
- No human efficacy trials completed. All mechanistic data from cell culture and animal models.
- Optimal dose, route, and cycle length for human research entirely undefined.
- Whether exogenous Humanin supplementation meaningfully raises circulating levels (vs. promoting endogenous production) is unclear.
Safety notes
No significant adverse events in animal studies. Human safety data is very limited. Research use only — proceed with caution given minimal human pharmacokinetic data.
Biomarkers to monitor
Primary-source citations
- PMID 21931766 — Humanin: a novel neuroprotective factor encoded by mitochondrial DNA (Cell Metab. 2011)
Frequently asked
What is Humanin?
Humanin (Mitochondria-Encoded Cytoprotective Peptide) is a research compound classified in our library as Tier D — Animal or in-vitro data only.. Encoded in mitochondrial DNA — cytoprotective peptide declining with age, neuroprotective and anti-apoptotic in preclinical models.
What is the evidence tier for Humanin?
We classify Humanin as Tier D: Animal or in-vitro data only. See our full peptide evidence tiers explainer for how we assign S/A/B/C/D.
What is the research dose of Humanin?
For Humanin, typical research dose is 2–4 mg/week, route is SubQ / Nasal, half-life is ~2–4h. Protocols vary by research goal — see the protocols section on this page for standard and advanced dosing schedules. Research use only, not medical advice.
What does Humanin stack well with?
Humanin stacks well with MOTS-c. Both mitochondria-encoded peptides. Humanin protects cells from apoptosis; MOTS-c drives biogenesis. Complementary mitochondrial health stack.
Is Humanin safe?
No significant adverse events in animal studies. Human safety data is very limited. Research context only — no compound on this site is approved for human therapeutic use unless explicitly noted.