Humanin
Also known as: HN · Humanin peptide · MT-RNR2 derived peptide
Humanin is encoded by the mitochondrial genome and acts as a paracrine/endocrine cytoprotective signal. It binds three known receptor complexes: a tripartite receptor (CNTFR/WSX-1/gp130), formylpeptide receptor-like 1 (FPRL1), and intracellular IGFBP3. Binding to gp130 complex activates JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/Akt pathways,...
What It Is
Humanin is encoded by the mitochondrial genome and acts as a paracrine/endocrine cytoprotective signal. It binds three known receptor complexes: a tripartite receptor (CNTFR/WSX-1/gp130), formylpeptide receptor-like 1 (FPRL1), and intracellular IGFBP3. Binding to gp130 complex activates JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/Akt pathways, inhibiting apoptosis. Humanin blocks Bax-mediated mitochondrial membrane permeabilization, sequesters pro-apoptotic proteins, activates AMPK for metabolic regulation, and has insulin-sensitizing effects via suppression of hepatic gluconeogenesis. Levels decline with aging.
Supplies Needed
Reconstitution
Small volume subcutaneous injection
Sterilization
Storage
Store at -20°C; stable 2+ years
Refrigerate 2–8°C; use within 30 days
This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. Not approved for human consumption by the FDA or any regulatory body. Always consult a qualified medical professional.
Dosing Protocols
Timing: Morning. Very limited human data. Start conservatively. HNG (Gly14-Humanin) analog is more stable.
↓ Apply these values to the reconstitution calculatorTiming: Morning. Stack with MOTS-c for comprehensive mitochondrial anti-aging protocol
↓ Apply these values to the reconstitution calculatorTiming: Morning. Advanced longevity protocol. Consider cycling 8 weeks on / 4 weeks off.
↓ Apply these values to the reconstitution calculatorWeekly Timeline
| Week | Expected Effects |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Improved energy; reduced inflammatory markers; improved insulin sensitivity beginning |
| Week 2 | Neuroprotective effects developing; improved cognitive clarity in some users |
| Week 4 | Improved metabolic markers; reduced oxidative stress; enhanced cellular resilience |
| Week 8 | Sustained cytoprotection; comprehensive mitochondrial anti-aging benefits accumulate |
Reconstitution Calculator
1 unit on U-100 syringe = 0.01 mL · Always label your vial after reconstitution
Injection Technique & Reconstitution
- Wipe vial stopper with alcohol swab
- Draw 2 mL bacteriostatic water
- Inject BAC water slowly along vial wall
- Gently swirl until dissolved
- Refrigerate at 2u20138u00b0C; use within 30 days
Use our free peptide reconstitution calculator to get the exact syringe units for your vial size and dose.
Mechanism of Action
Humanin is encoded by the mitochondrial genome and acts as a paracrine/endocrine cytoprotective signal. It binds three known receptor complexes: a tripartite receptor (CNTFR/WSX-1/gp130), formylpeptide receptor-like 1 (FPRL1), and intracellular IGFBP3. Binding to gp130 complex activates JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/Akt pathways, inhibiting apoptosis. Humanin blocks Bax-mediated mitochondrial membrane permeabilization, sequesters pro-apoptotic proteins, activates AMPK for metabolic regulation, and has insulin-sensitizing effects via suppression of hepatic gluconeogenesis. Levels decline with aging.
Key Research Papers
Original discovery paper showing Humanin protects against neuronal death induced by familial Alzheimer's disease genes and amyloid-beta toxicity.
View on PubMed →Demonstrated age-related decline in Humanin levels, suggesting its role in aging and potential as a longevity biomarker.
View on PubMed →Stacks Well With
Both are mitochondrial-derived peptides with complementary mechanisms: Humanin is cytoprotective/anti-apoptotic while MOTS-c drives metabolic flexibility and AMPK activation
SS-31 protects the inner mitochondrial membrane from oxidative damage while Humanin prevents downstream apoptotic signaling u2014 full-spectrum mitochondrial protection
Epithalon addresses telomere length and pineal function; Humanin protects against mitochondrial death signals u2014 comprehensive cellular longevity stack
Frequently Asked Questions
Humanin is a peptide encoded in the mitochondrial DNA (16S rRNA region), making it one of the few peptides with a mitochondrial genetic origin rather than a nuclear genome origin.
Yes u2014 circulating Humanin levels decrease significantly with aging, mirroring declines in mitochondrial function. This makes exogenous supplementation interesting for longevity research.
HNG (Gly14-Humanin) is an analog with a single amino acid substitution that increases potency approximately 1000-fold and extends half-life. Many researchers prefer HNG for this reason.
Legal Status by Region
This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. Not approved for human consumption by the FDA or any regulatory body. Always consult a qualified medical professional.