Peptides

Humanin

Evidence: animal_plus_anecdotal

Mechanism of Action

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.

Dosing Protocol

Standard: Research indicates dosing remains experimental. Animal studies use 1-10 mcg/day equivalents. Human protocols are not established.

Administration: subcutaneousintravenous

Timing: No established timing protocol. Morning dosing suggested for neuroprotective applications.

Duration: Experimental — no established cycle lengths.

Notes

Humanin is part of the emerging mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) family alongside MOTS-c and SHMOTFLs. Circulating humanin levels decline with age, correlating with increased susceptibility to neurodegenerative disease. The anti-apoptotic mechanism is double-edged: neuroprotective but theoretically could support cancer cell survival. Humanin analogs (particularly S14G-Humanin/HNG) show enhanced potency and are more commonly used in research. This is a frontier compound — promising but with minimal human data. Best positioned for clients specifically interested in neuroprotection and longevity science.

Stacking

  • MOTS-c
  • Epitalon
  • SS-31

Interactions

  • IGFBP-3 modulators [MEDIUM] — Humanin directly binds IGFBP-3; interactions with other IGFBP-3-modulating compounds are unpredictable.
  • GH/IGF-1 axis compounds [LOW] — Humanin modulates IGF signaling through IGFBP-3 interactions.

Contraindications

  • Active cancer (anti-apoptotic effects could support tumor survival)
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Side Effects

  • Limited data on side effects in humans
  • Theoretical: interference with normal apoptotic processes

Key Papers

  • 10.1073/pnas.2135111100
  • 10.1530/JME-12-0203

Source Quality

Research-grade supplier only. Extremely limited availability. Synthetic humanin analogs (HNG, S14G-HN) may offer improved stability.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. BioAccelera Labs does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before using any compound.

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