Evidence Grade C — Moderate human evidence. 521 published studies, 301 human. 2 registered clinical trials.
Medically reviewed by a licensed medical professional
Humanin is a peptide encoded in the mitochondrial genome (rather than in nuclear DNA), discovered in 2001 during a search for factors that protect against Alzheimer's-related cell death. It belongs to the emerging field of mitochondrial-derived peptides. No human clinical trials have been conducted. It remains entirely at the preclinical research stage.
Humanin is also known by these brand and alternate names:
521 published studies: 301 human, 136 animal, 113 in-vitro, 80 reviews
Humanin has no marketing authorisation. No human clinical trials have been conducted. The evidence base consists entirely of cell culture and animal studies since its discovery in 2001.
Human observational studies have reported associations between circulating humanin levels and age-related parameters, but observational correlations do not establish therapeutic potential. Like MOTS-c, humanin is of scientific interest within the mitochondrial-derived peptide field but remains at a preclinical stage. No products intended for human use have undergone regulatory review.
Research in cell culture and animal models suggests humanin may interact with multiple signalling pathways including a proposed trimeric receptor complex and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. It was originally identified for its ability to protect neurons from amyloid-beta toxicity in laboratory settings. These observations are entirely preclinical and have not been tested in human trials.
Research in cell culture and animal models suggests humanin may have protective effects against various forms of cellular stress, including amyloid-beta toxicity relevant to Alzheimer's disease. Human observational studies have found correlations between circulating humanin levels and age-related parameters. However, no human clinical trials have been conducted. The evidence consists entirely of preclinical work and observational correlations (which do not establish therapeutic potential). Key concerns include a very short half-life (under 30 minutes), unknown human pharmacology, and a theoretical concern that blocking cell death pathways could promote tumour growth. Modified analogues are under investigation but remain preclinical.
PeptideTrace tracks 2 registered clinical trials for Humanin sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov.
Clinical Value of Plasma Humanin in Acute Kidney Injury
Humanin Isoforms in Cardiac Muscle and Blood Plasma and Major Complications After Cardiac Operation
Humanin is a 24-amino-acid peptide encoded in mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. MW ~2,687 Da. First MDP identified (Hashimoto 2001) from Alzheimer's disease functional screen. Plasma ~0.5-1.0 ng/mL, declining with age and in AD. Potent analogue HNG (Ser14Gly) is ~1,000-fold more active. Not approved.
Research suggests multiple pathways: binds CNTFR/WSX-1/gp130 heterotrimeric receptor activating JAK/STAT3; binds IGFBP-3 blocking apoptosis; interacts with BAX preventing mitochondrial translocation and intrinsic apoptosis. Protects against amyloid-beta toxicity, oxidative stress, serum starvation. Improves insulin sensitivity via hypothalamic STAT3.
No marketing authorization. No human trials. Hashimoto et al. (PNAS 2001): protective against AD neuronal death. Tajima et al. (J Neurosci 2002): HNG rescued memory in AD mice. Muzumdar et al. (2009): improved insulin sensitivity, reduced visceral fat in aged mice. Yen et al. (2020): circulating levels predict longevity across species.
The information on this page is provided for educational and research reference purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health.
