What Is Humanin?

Also known as: HN, Mitochondrial-derived peptide

Humanin is a 24-amino-acid peptide encoded within the 16S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA — one of the mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs), a class that also includes MOTS-c and the SHLPs. It was discovered in 2001 in surviving neurons from an Alzheimer's brain.

It is studied as a cytoprotective signal: it binds pro-apoptotic proteins, improves insulin sensitivity and protects against oxidative stress. Circulating humanin falls with age, and higher levels are seen in the offspring of centenarians — hence its longevity reputation. Research analogs (HNG, S14G-humanin) are far more potent than the native peptide.

What is Humanin studied for?

Side effects & safety

Almost no human data — reported community side effects are limited to injection-site irritation. Its human safety profile is uncharacterized.

Legal & approval status

Not approved for any use; research peptide only.

Typical dosing at a glance

Commonly reported protocols use 1 mg–4 mg, 2–3x weekly, via subcutaneous injection. For the mixing math — how much bacteriostatic water, exact syringe units, doses per vial — see the Humanin reconstitution calculator →

Related peptides

What is MOTS-c?What is Epithalon?What is NAD+?What is SS-31?What is Glutathione?

Educational overview based on published research and commonly reported community protocols — not medical advice, and not an endorsement of any compound. Consult a licensed healthcare provider.