Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| Humanin | Kisspeptin-10 | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Peptides | Peptides |
| Standard Dose | Research indicates dosing remains experimental. Animal studies use 1-10 mcg/day equivalents. Human protocols are not established. | Research indicates 1-10 mcg/kg via subcutaneous injection or IV bolus for acute HPG axis stimulation. |
| Timing | No established timing protocol. Morning dosing suggested for neuroprotective applications. | Morning dosing preferred for testosterone optimization. Can be used acutely before sexual activity. |
| Cycle Duration | Experimental — no established cycle lengths. | Short-term use only. Continuous kisspeptin administration may cause tachyphylaxis (desensitization) of the HPG axis. |
| Evidence Level | animal_plus_anecdotal | moderate_human |
Humanin is a 24-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by the 16S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA. It binds IGFBP-3 with high affinity (via Phe-6), interfering with IGFBP-3 binding to importin-beta and suppressing IGFBP-3-mediated apoptosis. It also inhibits the pro-apoptotic protein Bax (Bcl-2 family), preventing mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization and intrinsic apoptosis. Humanin and IGFBP-3 synergistically protect neurons from amyloid-beta-induced apoptosis, and it activates the STAT3 and ERK1/2 pathways for cytoprotection.
Research indicates dosing remains experimental. Animal studies use 1-10 mcg/day equivalents. Human protocols are not established.
No established timing protocol. Morning dosing suggested for neuroprotective applications.
Experimental — no established cycle lengths.
Kisspeptin-10 is the 10-amino acid C-terminal fragment of the kisspeptin family that signals directly to GnRH neurons through the kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R/GPR54), triggering GnRH release into the portal circulation. This stimulates LH and FSH secretion from anterior pituitary gonadotrophs. In men, intravenous kisspeptin-10 produces rapid dose-dependent LH rises (4.1 to 12.4 IU/L at 1 mcg/kg within 30 minutes), increases LH pulse frequency and amplitude, and subsequently elevates testosterone through the HPG axis.
Research indicates 1-10 mcg/kg via subcutaneous injection or IV bolus for acute HPG axis stimulation.
Morning dosing preferred for testosterone optimization. Can be used acutely before sexual activity.
Short-term use only. Continuous kisspeptin administration may cause tachyphylaxis (desensitization) of the HPG axis.
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