Humanin molecular structure
Humanin molecular structure
Experimental
⏳Longevity

Humanin

Also known as: HN, Mitochondrial-derived peptide

MW

2687.10 Da

Formula

C117H185N35O34S2

CAS

330936-69-1

Routes

1 route

Humanin is a 24-amino acid mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded by the 16S ribosomal RNA region of mitochondrial DNA. Discovered in 2001 during a screen for factors that protect neurons from Alzheimer's disease-related toxicity, humanin represents a paradigm shift in our understanding of mitochondrial genetics — demonstrating that mitochondrial DNA encodes not only structural/enzymatic proteins but also small bioactive peptides with systemic signaling functions. Humanin's primary biological roles include cytoprotection against cellular stress, metabolic regulation, and anti-inflammatory activity. It declines with age, correlating with increasing vulnerability to age-related diseases. Synthetic analogs (HNG — humanin with Gly→Ser substitution at position 14) show 1000-fold enhanced potency and are being developed for neuroprotective and cardiometabolic applications.

Research Use Only— For educational and research purposes only

Research Applications

Alzheimer's Disease Neuroprotection

Humanin protects neurons from amyloid-beta toxicity, the primary pathological mechanism in AD. Preclinical studies show reduced neuronal death, improved cognitive function, and decreased amyloid burden.

Cardiovascular Protection

Research shows humanin reduces cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury, inhibits atherosclerosis, and improves endothelial function. Circulating humanin levels inversely correlate with cardiovascular disease risk.

Age-Related Metabolic Disease

Humanin improves insulin sensitivity, reduces hepatic steatosis, and enhances mitochondrial function. It may counteract metabolic decline associated with aging mitochondrial dysfunction.

Mitochondrial Biology

Humanin serves as a key research tool for understanding mitochondrial-derived peptide signaling — a new class of retrograde signals from mitochondria to the nucleus and other cellular compartments.

Mechanism of Action

Humanin acts through multiple receptors: it binds to the FPRL1 (formyl peptide receptor-like 1) and activates the CNTFR/WSX-1/gp130 tripartite receptor complex (STAT3 signaling). It inhibits Bax-mediated apoptosis by directly binding Bax and preventing its mitochondrial translocation. Humanin also binds IGFBP-3, modulating IGF-1 signaling, and activates AMPK for metabolic regulation. Its cytoprotective effects involve reduced oxidative stress, maintained mitochondrial membrane potential, and inhibition of caspase cascades.

Biological Pathways

STAT3 survival signaling via tripartite receptor. Direct Bax inhibition preventing mitochondrial apoptosis. AMPK activation for metabolic homeostasis. ERK1/2 MAPK for neuroprotection. IGFBP-3 interaction modulating IGF-1 axis.

Dosage Information

Typical dosage ranges for research applications. Always verify with current literature.
Typical Dose
500 mcg
Dose Range
100 - 5,000 mcg
Frequency
Research: 0.1-4 mg/kg 2-3 times weekly in animal models; limited human data
Weight-Based
50 mcg/kg
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Calculation Results

Concentration
2.5 mg/ml
Dose Volume
0.1 ml0.100 ml
Insulin Syringe
10 units
Doses per Vial
2020 doses @ 250 mcg

Syringe Fill Level (100u syringe)

05010010.0uunits
0u10.0 / 100 units (10%)100u

Protocols

No protocols featuring this peptide yet.

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Stability & Storage

Humanin peptide is supplied as lyophilized powder. Store at -20°C. Sensitive to oxidation (methionine at position 1). Reconstitute with sterile water. Short half-life in circulation (~30 minutes). The HNG analog (Gly14→Ser) shows 1000-fold higher potency with similar stability profile.

Side Effects & Precautions

Limited human safety data as humanin remains largely in preclinical research. No significant toxicity observed in animal studies at therapeutic doses. Theoretical concern that anti-apoptotic activity could promote survival of damaged or pre-malignant cells.

Research Use Only. This information is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended for medical advice or self-medication.

Regulatory Status

Experimental

Investigational compound. No regulatory approvals. Preclinical and early translational research phase. Not WADA-prohibited.

Research Studies

Humanin: A Neuroprotective Peptide from Mitochondrial DNA

Hashimoto Y, Niikura T, Tajima H, et al.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
2001
View Source

Humanin and Age-Related Diseases

Yen K, Lee C, Mehta H, Cohen P.

Aging Cell
2013
View Source

Mitochondrial-Derived Peptides as Novel Biomarkers

Kim SJ, Xiao J, Wan J, et al.

Cell Metabolism
2017
View Source
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