SHLP3

also known as: Small humanin-like peptide 3, MT-RNR2-derived SHLP3

One of the six small humanin-like peptides (Cohen lab); preclinical reports suggest roles in adipogenesis and metabolic regulation. Less well-characterized than SHLP2 or humanin. Research-only.

A mitochondrial-derived peptide in the SHLP1–SHLP6 family, identified by Cohen's group alongside the other SHLPs and reported preclinically to modulate adipogenesis and glucose metabolism. Less extensively characterized than SHLP2. Research-only; no human clinical data.

Mechanism of action

Proposed to modulate adipocyte differentiation and glucose handling via mitochondrial-derived peptide signaling. Receptor target not definitively characterized. Mechanistic understanding is less developed than for SHLP2 or humanin.

Primary uses

Adipogenesis research (preclinical)
Mitochondrial-derived peptide biology (aging research)

Typical dosing

Not established for human use

⚠ No human dosing established. Any human use would be unregulated and unsupported.

Regulatory status

Not FDA-approved. No registered clinical trials. Research-only.

References

[pubmed] Cobb LJ, et al. "Naturally occurring mitochondrial-derived peptides are age-dependent regulators of apoptosis, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory markers." Aging (Albany NY), 2016;8:796-809.
[pubmed] Yen K, et al. "The mitochondrial derived peptide humanin is a regulator of lifespan and healthspan." Aging (Albany NY), 2020;12:11185-11199.

Related peptides

Humanin

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

SHLP2

A 26-aa mitochondrial-derived peptide, the most-studied of the SHLP1–SHLP6 family (Cohen lab, USC). Preclinical data report insulin-sensitizing, antiapoptotic, and metabolic-protective effects; lower plasma levels in humans correlate with age and with type 2 diabetes. Research-only; no human clinical trials.

SHLP6

A SHLP-family member with a notably distinct preclinical profile: where humanin and SHLP2 are antiapoptotic, SHLP6 has been reported as pro-apoptotic, suggesting the mitochondrial-derived peptide family includes members with opposing regulatory roles. Research-only.

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.