Humanin
unknown riskAlso: HN · Humanin-G (HNG) · Colivelin
Humanin is a 21-amino acid mitochondrially encoded peptide discovered during screening for Alzheimer's-protective factors. It is part of an emerging class of mitochondria-derived peptides (MDPs) with pleiotropic protective effects.
Reported Benefits
Neuroprotection
Protects neurons from Abeta toxicity, oxidative stress, and ischemia in multiple animal models.
Anti-aging
Lower humanin levels correlate with aging phenotypes; supplementation extends lifespan in C. elegans.
Metabolic Protection
Improves insulin sensitivity and reduces obesity-related inflammation in mouse models.
Mechanism of Action
Humanin binds to and activates a tripartite receptor complex (CNTFR/WSX-1/GP130) to activate JAK2/STAT3 signaling, promoting cell survival. It also inhibits Bax-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis pathways, scavenges reactive oxygen species, and modulates insulin signaling through IGFBP-3 interactions.
Key Clinical Studies
Hashimoto Y et al. (2001)
laboratory · Alzheimer's model neurons
Humanin rescues neurons from Abeta-induced apoptosis
Lee C et al. (2012)
animal · C. elegans
Humanin extends lifespan via DAF-16 pathway
Overview
Humanin was serendipitously discovered in 2001 during a screen for genes that protect neurons from Alzheimer’s disease-related toxicity. The name reflects its apparent “saving” of human neurons. It is now understood to be one of several peptides encoded within the mitochondrial genome — a class called mitochondria-derived peptides (MDPs) with far-reaching biological significance.
Mitochondrial Origin
Humanin is encoded within the 16S ribosomal RNA gene of mitochondrial DNA — making it one of only a handful of peptides known to be mitochondrially encoded. This unusual origin connects it to energy metabolism and the evolutionary biology of mitochondria as former endosymbionts.
Alzheimer’s Research
The original context — protection from amyloid beta toxicity — remains the most characterized application. Humanin levels are lower in Alzheimer’s patients than controls, and supplementation in animal models shows neuroprotective benefit. Human trials are limited but suggest it is safe and pharmacologically active.
Aging Biomarker
Humanin declines with aging in humans, and this decline tracks with aspects of the aging phenotype. This positions it as both a potential aging biomarker and a therapeutic target, though the dose-response relationship for human health benefits is not established.
Regulatory Status
Research OnlyNot FDA-approved; preclinical and early human studies; research compound
Safety Profile
Side Effects
- •No significant adverse effects characterized in human studies
Contraindications
- •No established contraindications
Drug Interactions
- •IGF-1/insulin axis medications (theoretical)
Primary Uses
Related Peptides
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