Humanin

Preclinical only Neuroprotection 3 sources

Humanin is a naturally occurring micropeptide encoded by the mitochondrial genome. Research indicates it possesses potent cytoprotective and anti-apoptotic properties, helping cells survive under stress. It is widely studied for its potential neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer's disease and its role in metabolic and cardiovascular health.

01Dosing reference

Amount

Not established (Research only)

Frequency

Varies by study design

Cycle

Unknown in humans

Reference figures, not a recommendationThese values reflect amounts described in the literature and vendor documentation this database indexes. Use the reconstitution calculator to convert them into syringe units.

02Mechanism of action

Receptor Binding

Humanin binds to specific cell surface receptors, including the CNTFR/WSX-1/gp130 complex and FPRL1.

Intracellular Signaling

Binding activates survival pathways such as STAT3 and ERK1/2, while inhibiting pro-apoptotic proteins like Bax.

Cellular Protection

This signaling cascade prevents cell death (apoptosis) under oxidative stress and toxic insults, preserving cellular function.

03Human evidence

Circulating levels correlate with age and disease

Observational studies in humans show that endogenous Humanin levels decline with age and are altered in conditions like Alzheimer's and type 2 diabetes, though therapeutic trials of exogenous Humanin are lacking.

Potential biomarker for mitochondrial dysfunction

Human studies suggest that measuring Humanin levels could serve as a biomarker for mitochondrial stress and age-related diseases.

04Preclinical evidence

Protects against amyloid-beta toxicity

In vitro and animal models of Alzheimer's disease show that Humanin prevents neuronal death induced by amyloid-beta peptides.

Improves metabolic parameters

Rodent studies demonstrate that Humanin administration improves insulin sensitivity and reduces weight gain in diet-induced obesity models.

05What is known vs. unknown

Reasonably established

Humanin is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) that protects cells from stress-induced apoptosis.
It has demonstrated significant neuroprotective effects in models of Alzheimer's disease.
Research shows it plays a role in regulating metabolism and improving insulin sensitivity.
Endogenous levels of Humanin naturally decline as humans age.

Unknowns & limits

The efficacy and safety of exogenous Humanin administration in humans remain unproven in clinical trials.
Optimal dosing, half-life, and delivery methods for therapeutic use are not yet established.
Long-term effects of artificially elevating Humanin levels are unknown.

06Safety & regulatory context

Regulatory statusHumanin is currently an experimental research chemical and is not approved by the FDA for human use. Because therapeutic human trials are lacking, its safety profile, potential side effects, and contraindications are not well defined. In animal models, it appears well-tolerated, but the long-term implications of modulating apoptotic pathways require careful investigation to ensure it does not inadvertently protect malignant cells.

07Compared with MOTS-c

Humanin vs. MOTS-c

Key difference

While both are mitochondrial-derived peptides, Humanin primarily focuses on cytoprotection and neuroprotection, whereas MOTS-c is more heavily involved in metabolic regulation and exercise mimetics.

When researchers discuss each

Researchers discuss Humanin when focusing on neurodegenerative diseases and cellular survival, and MOTS-c when addressing obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic optimization.

08Glossary

Mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP)

Small proteins encoded by the DNA found inside mitochondria, which play roles in cellular metabolism and survival.

Apoptosis

The process of programmed cell death that occurs in multicellular organisms.

Cytoprotective

A property of a substance that protects cells from harmful agents or stress.

09Knowledge check

Q1Where is the gene encoding Humanin located?

Q2What is the primary cellular function of Humanin observed in research?

Q3Which statement most accurately reflects the current state of evidence for therapeutic Humanin use?

Q4According to the dossier, in which research contexts are Humanin and MOTS-c primarily discussed, respectively?

Q5Which statement best reflects the dossier's safety and regulatory information about Humanin?

10Sources

More in Neuroprotection

See all

Cerebrolysin

Neuroprotection

Human clinical

Cerebrolysin is a complex mixture of low-molecular-weight peptides and amino acids derived from purified porcine brain tissue. Research indicates it mimics the action of endogenous neurotrophic factors, promoting neuroprotection, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity. It has been extensively studied and utilized in clinical settings for stroke recovery, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

5-50 mL per day depending on the severity of the condition (e.g., 5 mL IM for mild cognitive issues, up to 50 mL IV for acute stroke)

Pinealon

Neuroprotection

Early human

Pinealon is a synthetic tripeptide (Glu-Asp-Arg) designed to act as a peptide bioregulator for the brain and central nervous system. Research suggests it interacts directly with DNA to regulate gene expression, offering neuroprotective effects, improving cognitive function, and reducing oxidative stress in brain cells.

1-2 mg per day (SubQ) or 10-20 mg per day (Oral)

ARA-290 (Cibinetide)

Neuroprotection

Human clinical

ARA-290, also known as Cibinetide, is an engineered peptide derived from erythropoietin (EPO) that selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR) without stimulating red blood cell production. Research has primarily focused on its potential to reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and alleviate neuropathic pain, particularly in conditions like sarcoidosis and diabetic neuropathy.

4 mg/day

Research and educational use onlyNothing on this site is medical advice, a prescription, or a recommendation for human use. Compounds documented here are research chemicals. Consult a qualified clinician before making any health decision.