Humanin Research Information
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide
24-Amino Acid Cytoprotective Peptide for Neurobiology Research
Important: This information is for educational and research purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before use.
Contents
What is Humanin?
Humanin (HN) is a 24-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) discovered in 2001, encoded within the 16S ribosomal RNA gene of mitochondrial DNA. It possesses anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties and is localized to the mitochondria.
Humanin is the first identified peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA that is biologically active, opening a new field of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs).
Mechanism of Action
Humanin functions through multiple pathways to support research models:
Receptor Binding
Binds to FPRL1 and FPRL2 receptors to activate cytoprotective pathways
Autophagy Induction
Acts as an autophagy inducer, promoting cell survival under metabolic and oxidative stress
Apoptosis Inhibition
Inhibits apoptosis and reduces oxidative stress through anti-inflammatory pathways
Humanin protects neurons from amyloid beta toxicity and regulates systemic metabolism.
Research Applications
Neuroprotection
Alzheimer's disease models, neuronal survival studies
Mitochondrial Research
Mitochondrial-derived peptide signaling, cellular energy metabolism
Metabolic Research
Insulin resistance, lipid metabolism, glucose regulation
Cancer Research
Prostate cancer studies, tumor suppressor mechanisms
Clinical Studies
Key Research Findings:
- Humanin significantly downregulated in prostate cancer and precancerous lesions
- Decreased serum levels in PCOS, associated with androgen excess and insulin resistance
- Demonstrated neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer's disease models
- Functions as a cytoprotective peptide through mitochondrial pathways
Dosing Guide
Reconstitute 10mg vial with 3mL bacteriostatic water = 3.33 mg/mL concentration. Units assume a standard U-100 insulin syringe (100 units = 1 mL).
Step 1: Select Vial Size
Step 2: Select Dose
Research protocols typically range from 1-5 mg daily via subcutaneous injection.
Vial Size
10mg Vial
Selected Dose
1 mg
Doses per Vial
10 doses
Units on Syringe
30 units
Volume
0.30 mL
Protocol
Starting
Recommended Schedule
Once daily - Subcutaneous Injection
Do not change your dose unless advised by a qualified professional.
Reconstitution Instructions
Add 3mL of bacteriostatic water to your freeze-dried vial and mix gently. After reconstitution, use the table below to draw your dose:
Vial Size
10mg vial with 3mL bac water (3.33 mg/mL)
| Dose | Units on Syringe | Volume (mL) | Protocol |
|---|
Always use a new sterile needle and syringe for each injection.
Safety & Precautions
Do not use if you:
- Are allergic to Humanin or any components
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Warning: If you experience severe allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, or signs of anaphylaxis, seek immediate medical help.
References
- Hashimoto Y, et al. A rescue factor abolishing neuronal cell death. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2001
- Yen K, et al. The emerging role of the mitochondrial-derived peptide humanin. J Mol Endocrinol. 2013
This information is for educational and research purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional.
Last updated: August 2026