Humanin
Also known as: HN, HNG, Humanin G, HN-24
Mitochondria-Derived Peptide | HN
Overview
Humanin was the first mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) discovered, originally cloned from the occipital lobe of an Alzheimer's patient. It is a 24-amino acid peptide encoded from the 16S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA with potent neuroprotective, cytoprotective, and anti-apoptotic properties. Research shows humanin levels decline with age but remain stable in long-lived species like naked mole-rats, and offspring of centenarians have significantly higher humanin levels.
Key benefits
- Potent neuroprotection against Alzheimer's and Parkinson's pathology
- Extended lifespan in animal models (C. elegans)
- Improved metabolic healthspan parameters
- Reduced inflammatory markers
- Cytoprotective effects across multiple cell types
- Anti-apoptotic activity
- Mitochondrial optimization and biogenesis
- Protection against oxidative stress
Mechanism of action
Humanin exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. It interacts with cell surface receptors including FPRL1 and CNTFR, activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathways that promote cell survival. It blocks pro-apoptotic proteins like Bax, reduces beta-amyloid toxicity in neurons, protects against oxidative stress, and promotes mitochondrial biogenesis. These actions support healthy cellular aging at a fundamental level.
Molecular data
- Type
- Mitochondria-derived peptide
- Half-life
- ~30 minutes (mice), >4 hours (rats)
Sequence
Met-Ala-Pro-Arg-Gly-Phe-Ser-Cys-Leu-Leu-Leu-Leu-Thr-Ser-Glu-Ile-Asp-Leu-Pro-Val-Lys-Arg-Arg-Ala
Indications
What the research community uses this compound for, with self-reported effectiveness.
Neuroprotection
Longevity
Cellular Protection
Dosing protocols
Common protocols by delivery method. Adjust the curve below to model accumulation in your own cycle.
Delivery method
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | 1-5 mg | 2-3x weekly | — |
| — | 1-3 mg | 2x weekly | — |
| — | 0.5-2 mg | 2x weekly | — |
Safety
Reported adverse effects, contraindications, and what to monitor on cycle.
Common side effects
- Injection site reactions
- Mild fatigue initially
- Headache (rare)
Rare side effects
- Allergic reactions
Contraindications
- Active cancer (theoretical concern with anti-apoptotic effects)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Hypersensitivity to peptide components
Monitoring
- Limited human clinical data available
- Research peptide - medical supervision recommended