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Research Only Longevity & Mitochondrial

SHLP4

also known as: Small Humanin-Like Peptide 4, SHLP-4

A mitochondrial-derived peptide linked to cellular proliferation and insulin sensitivity.

A mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within MT-RNR2 that promotes cellular proliferation and may influence insulin sensitivity.

Mechanism of action

Encoded in MT-RNR2 of mitochondrial DNA. Unlike anti-apoptotic SHLPs 2, 3, and 6, SHLP4 appears to promote cell proliferation. May influence glucose metabolism.

Primary uses

  • Research: SHLP family characterization
  • Cell proliferation and metabolism research

Typical dosing

N/A N/A N/A (research only)

Very early-stage.

Regulatory status

Not approved. Early-stage research.

References

  1. [pubmed] Cobb LJ, et al. "Naturally occurring mitochondrial-derived peptides are age-dependent regulators of apoptosis, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory markers." Aging. 2016;8(4):796-809.

Related peptides

SHLP1

The first small humanin-like peptide — a mitochondrial-derived signaling molecule with chaperone-like cytoprotective activity.

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.

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.

SHLP5

A mitochondrial-derived peptide with emerging roles in metabolic regulation and cellular stress protection.

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.

Humanin

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

MOTS-c

A mitochondrially encoded peptide studied for its effects on metabolic homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, and exercise capacity.

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.