Whether you're sourcing suppliers or finding providers, start your journey with confidence today.
Humanin (Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide)
Also known as: HN, HNG, Humanin G, [Gly14]-Humanin, S14G-Humanin
Confidence
Updated 2026-03-20
Humanin is a 24-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the 16S ribosomal RNA gene of mitochondrial DNA. It was originally discovered in 2001 during a screen for factors that protect neurons against Alzheimer's disease-related toxicity. Alongside MOTS-c, it is one of the two most studied members of the mitochondrial-derived peptide family and has generated significant interest in longevity and neuroprotection research.
Class
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide
Routes
Subcutaneous, Intravenous
Half-Life
Short — estimated minutes in native form; analogs (HNG, S14G-HN) have improved stability
Humanin exerts cytoprotective effects through multiple pathways: it binds to and activates the FPRL1 (formyl peptide receptor-like 1) and CNTFR/WSX-1/gp130 tripartite receptor complex, activating STAT3 and PI3K/Akt survival signaling. It inhibits Bax-mediated apoptosis by directly binding to Bax and preventing its translocation to mitochondria. It also antagonizes IGFBP-3-mediated cell death and reduces oxidative stress by modulating mitochondrial ROS production.
Half-Life
Short — estimated minutes in native form; analogs (HNG, S14G-HN) have improved stability
Bioavailability
Subcutaneous: low-moderate for native humanin; improved with S14G analog
No approved indications. Research areas: Alzheimer's disease neuroprotection, mitochondrial dysfunction, age-related cognitive decline, cardiovascular protection, insulin resistance, oxidative stress-related conditions, chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment.
Hashimoto et al. (2001) identified humanin as a neuroprotective factor against AD-related insults. Subsequent studies demonstrated protection against Aβ toxicity, oxidative stress, and serum starvation-induced apoptosis. Muzumdar et al. showed humanin improves insulin sensitivity in animal models. Circulating humanin levels decline with age and correlate inversely with cognitive decline in observational studies. The S14G-HN analog shows 1000x greater potency in vitro. No published human interventional trials.
Human Studies
0
Animal Studies
30
No human safety data from interventional trials. Animal studies suggest good tolerability. Theoretical concerns: effects on IGF-1/IGFBP-3 axis may have metabolic consequences; long-term effects of chronic exogenous administration unknown; potential interactions with apoptotic pathways in cancer biology (anti-apoptotic effects could theoretically be unfavorable in cancer).
Investigational only. Available through research peptide suppliers. No pharmaceutical-grade product. Active basic science research but no clinical development program announced as of 2026.
Drug Interactions: Unknown — no human pharmacokinetic data. Theoretical interactions with IGF-1 axis modulators and apoptosis-modulating therapies. Monitoring: No established protocols. Research measures include circulating humanin levels (ELISA), mitochondrial function biomarkers, cognitive assessments, oxidative stress markers. Research Gaps: Human pharmacokinetics entirely unknown for exogenous administration. Optimal analog selection (native vs. S14G-HN). Brain penetration and CNS bioavailability. Long-term safety of exogenous MDP supplementation.
Subcutaneous (Research)
Common Range
No established human dose; animal studies: 0.4–4 mg/kg (HNG analog)
Timing
Research protocols only — no clinical dosing established
Frequency
Daily in most animal studies
Cycling
No established cycling protocol
Important Note
S14G-Humanin (HNG) analog is preferred in research due to 1000x greater potency. Native humanin has very short half-life. Research-grade only — no clinical use established.
Connect with a verified provider offering Humanin therapy near you.
Metabolic / Exercise Mimetic
MOTS-c is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA — making it one of the few known mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) with signaling functions. Often described as an "exercise mimetic," it plays a key role in metabolic regulation, glucose homeostasis, and cellular energy production. It represents a frontier area of peptide research connecting mitochondrial biology to metabolic health.
Mitochondrial-Targeted Peptide
SS-31 (elamipretide) is a mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide that selectively concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing cardiolipin and restoring electron transport chain function. Developed by Stealth BioTherapeutics, it has been studied in clinical trials for heart failure, Barth syndrome, and mitochondrial myopathy. It represents a novel approach to treating diseases of mitochondrial dysfunction.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any peptide therapy. PeptideSupplierMatch does not prescribe, sell, or distribute peptides.
Whether you're sourcing peptides for your business or looking for providers near you, we can help.