Humanin

also known as: HN, MTRNR2, S14G-Humanin (HNG)

A mitochondrial-derived peptide with neuroprotective, metabolic, and anti-apoptotic activity — one of the first signaling peptides identified as encoded by mitochondrial DNA.

A 24-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene (MTRNR2), with broad cytoprotective effects against Alzheimer-type amyloid toxicity, insulin resistance, and cardiac ischemia.

Mechanism of action

Interacts with pro-apoptotic BAX and Bid proteins, preventing their activation and inhibiting apoptosis. Activates STAT3 signaling through a membrane receptor complex. Demonstrates insulin-sensitizing activity via effects on IRS-1 and AMPK. Crosses the blood-brain barrier and shows neuroprotective activity against amyloid-β and prion toxicity in neuronal cultures.

Primary uses

Alzheimer's disease research (preclinical)
Metabolic disease research
Cardiac ischemia-reperfusion research
Aging biology

Typical dosing

preclinical varies (subcutaneous or IV (preclinical))

No human dosing established. Community use carries unknown risk.

Regulatory status

Not approved. Active preclinical and academic research program since discovery in 2001 by Hashimoto et al. Primarily investigated in Alzheimer's disease, insulin resistance, and cardiac ischemia models. No clinical trials published to date.

References

[pubmed] Hashimoto Y, et al. "A rescue factor abolishing neuronal cell death by a wide spectrum of familial Alzheimer's disease genes and Abeta." Proc Natl Acad Sci USA, 2001;98:6336-6341.
[pubmed] Lee C, et al. "Humanin: a harbinger of mitochondrial-derived peptides?" Trends Endocrinol Metab, 2013;24:222-228.
[pubmed] Muzumdar RH, et al. "Humanin: a novel central regulator of peripheral insulin action." PLoS One, 2009;4:e6334.

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SS-31 (Elamipretide)

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Epithalon

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Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.