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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.

Guides & tools

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.