Humanin

Quick Specifications

Research Overview

Humanin is a 21-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide first discovered in 2001 from the brain tissue of an Alzheimer's disease patient — researchers noticed that specific brain cells were surviving in an otherwise degenerating environment and traced the protective signal to Humanin, encoded within the 16S rRNA region of the mitochondrial genome. Along with MOTS-c and SS-31, Humanin forms the core trio of mitochondrial-targeted research peptides. Its primary mechanism is cytoprotection: Humanin works by blocking pro-apoptotic proteins — particularly Bax — at the mitochondrial membrane, preventing the release of cytochrome c that triggers programmed cell death. It also reduces beta-amyloid toxicity in neurons. In animal research, Humanin has demonstrated protection of neurons against Alzheimer's-associated apoptosis, prion disease, and forms of dementia; reduction of oxidative stress in retinal pigment epithelium; cytoprotective effects in heart, muscle, and blood vessel cells; and improved insulin sensitivity in aging models. Humanin levels decline measurably with age and are lower in individuals with metabolic disease. Unlike MOTS-c (which drives metabolic adaptation) and SS-31 (which repairs the inner membrane), Humanin functions primarily as a cellular shield protecting existing cells from stress-induced death. The three peptides are mechanistically complementary and increasingly studied together in longevity protocols. For research and educational purposes only.

Commonly Studied With

These peptides are frequently researched alongside Humanin: 5mg due to complementary mechanisms:

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