Humanin

Humanin is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) with potent cytoprotective and neuroprotective functions. It interacts with IGFBP-3 and activates AMPK, PI3K/Akt, STAT3, and FOXO pathways to enhance mitochondrial metabolism, reduce apoptosis, and combat oxidative stress. Humanin shows promise in aging-related conditions, including Alzheimer's, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic dysfunction. It is used in longevity protocols to support brain function, mitochondrial stability, and glucose regulation in both in vitro and rodent models.

• Binds to IGFBP-3, preventing neuronal apoptosis and oxidative stress-induced cell death
• Activates AMPK and PI3K/Akt pathways, enhancing mitochondrial health, insulin sensitivity, and cellular energy production
• Reduces beta-amyloid toxicity, implicated in Alzheimer’s disease progression
• Suppresses cell death from hypoxia and serum starvation via STAT3
• Enhances mitochondrial metabolism through increased complex I and ATP output
• Activates SIRT1 and FOXO3 pathways for longevity and cell resilience

• unit: mg

  low dose: 0.5

  frequency: daily

  high dose: 2

  standard dose: 1

  administration route: Subcutaneous (SQ)

• unit: mg

  low dose: 0.4

  frequency: weekly

  high dose: 1.2

  standard dose: 0.8

  administration route: Intravenous (IV)

• Common protocol is 1 mg SubQ daily or 3–5x per week for 4–6 weeks. For neuroprotection and longevity, longer continuous use (up to 12 weeks) has been reported in clinical protocols. Cycling every 3 months with breaks is advised to reduce potential mitochondrial adaptation.
• Used less frequently; 0.8–1.2 mg IV once weekly or as part of practitioner-guided therapies. May be employed post-SS-31 or NAD+ protocols for neurovascular restoration.

common: ["Mild flushing","Headache","Transient fatigue","Occasional gastrointestinal discomfort"]

warnings: ["Limited data on long-term use; cycling is recommended","May interact with insulin-regulating compounds"]

long term: ["Potential unknown long-term immune effects"]

sequence: MAPRGFSCLLLLTSEIDLPVKRRA

half life: 4 hours

degradation: Metabolized by proteases in blood and tissues.

molecular weight: 2687.2

molecular formula: C87H138N24O26S2

tissue specificity: Brain, muscle, and liver.

• Humanin: Functional Interfaces with IGF-I.reviewPMID 27082450 ↗
• The mitochondrial-derived peptide humanin activates ERK1/2, AKT, and STAT3.mechanismPMID 27384491 ↗
• The mitochondrial derived peptide humanin is a regulator of lifespan and healthspan.preclinicalPMID 32575074 ↗