Humanin
Humanin (HN)
Humanin is a small peptide naturally produced by the mitochondria—the energy centers inside your cells—and it's known for its protective, anti-aging properties, especially in the brain and nervous system. It acts like a cellular bodyguard, shielding cells from stress, inflammation, and toxic proteins that are linked to diseases like Alzheimer’s. By improving how cells respond to stress and reducing oxidative damage, Humanin helps keep tissues functioning well as we age.
Beyond brain health, Humanin also supports metabolic function, insulin sensitivity, and may help reduce chronic inflammation throughout the body. Studies have shown that levels of Humanin decline with age, and restoring them in animal models has improved lifespan and vitality. Because of its mitochondrial origin and broad protective effects, Humanin is considered a promising candidate for anti-aging and neuroprotective therapies, with ongoing research into its role in longevity.
Protocols
1. Neuroprotection & Cognitive Enhancement (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Brain Aging)
• Dosage: 5–10 mg daily (subcutaneous injection)
• Cycle: 8–12 weeks, followed by a 4-week break
Administration: Best taken in the morning for brain function optimization
Stacking:
• With Dihexa or Semax for enhanced memory and synaptic plasticity
• With GHK-Cu for neuronal repair and anti-inflammatory effects
• With Lion’s Mane Mushroom Extract for BDNF and nerve regeneration
Expected Benefits:
Improved cognitive function and memory retention
Reduced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress
Protection against Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative diseases
2. Mitochondrial Function & Anti-Aging (Longevity & Cellular Health)
• Dosage: 10 mg per day (SC injection or oral capsules)
• Cycle: 8-week cycle, followed by a 4-week break
Administration: Best taken with NAD+ precursors (e.g., NMN, NR)
Stacking:
• With MOTS-c for mitochondrial biogenesis and metabolic synergy
• With Epitalon for telomere extension and longevity benefits
• With Resveratrol or Quercetin for anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects
Expected Benefits:
Increased mitochondrial efficiency and ATP production
Reduced oxidative damage and cellular aging
Enhanced stress resistance and longevity
3. Metabolic Health & Insulin Sensitivity (Diabetes & Fat Loss Support)
• Dosage: 5–10 mg daily (SC injection or oral capsules)
• Cycle: 8–12 weeks, with a 4-week break
Administration: Best taken before meals to optimize glucose metabolism
Stacking:
• With Berberine or Metformin for enhanced insulin sensitivity
• With AOD-9604 or Tesamorelin for fat loss support
• With GHK-Cu for vascular protection and anti-inflammatory benefits
Expected Benefits:
Improved blood sugar control and insulin signaling
Reduced visceral fat accumulation
Enhanced metabolic flexibility and fat oxidation
4. Cardiovascular Protection & Inflammation Reduction
• Dosage: 5 mg per day (SC or oral)
• Cycle: 8-week cycle, followed by a 4-week break
Administration: Best taken in the morning with heart-healthy nutrients (CoQ10, Omega-3s)
Stacking:
• With Thymosin Beta-4 (TB-500) for cardiovascular tissue repair
• With MOTS-c for vascular function and mitochondrial support
• With GHK-Cu for anti-inflammatory and endothelial health
Expected Benefits:
Reduced arterial stiffness and cardiovascular inflammation
Improved heart function and circulation
Protection against hypertension and atherosclerosis
Further reading
Humanin has emerged as a key player in mitochondrial biology and aging research. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark of neurodegeneration, metabolic disease, and cardiovascular decline, and Humanin appears to counteract these effects by enhancing mitochondrial signaling and reducing oxidative stress.
Neuroprotection & Cognitive Function
One of the most promising applications of Humanin is in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease prevention. Studies have shown that Humanin reduces beta-amyloid toxicity, a major contributor to Alzheimer’s disease progression. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects help protect neurons from degeneration.
Mitochondrial Health & Longevity
Since Humanin declines with age, supplementation may help restore mitochondrial function and enhance cellular resilience. Research has linked higher Humanin levels to increased lifespan and resistance to age-related diseases. Its ability to improve metabolic flexibility and cellular energy production makes it a potential longevity-enhancing compound.
Metabolic & Cardiovascular Benefits
Humanin plays a crucial role in insulin sensitivity and metabolic regulation, making it valuable for conditions like type 2 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. It has also been shown to protect against cardiovascular disease by reducing oxidative stress and improving endothelial function.
While Humanin research is still in early stages, the strong correlation between mitochondrial peptides and longevity suggests it could be a powerful tool for anti-aging and disease prevention.
References
- Hashimoto, Y., et al. (2001). Humanin: A peptide involved in Alzheimer's disease resistance. Nature, 414(6860), 292-296.
Muzumdar, R.H., et al. (2009). Humanin: A novel neuroprotective factor for the aging brain. Neurobiology of Aging, 30(3), 535-543.
Cohen, P., et al. (2017). Mitochondrial-derived peptides as a new therapeutic class: Humanin and MOTS-c in metabolic and age-related diseases. Cell Metabolism, 25(5), 1001-1011.
Kim, S.J., et al. (2020). Humanin analogues improve insulin sensitivity and metabolic function in animal models of diabetes. Endocrinology, 161(5), bqaa043.
Yousefzadeh, M.J., et al. (2021). Mitochondrial peptides, cellular aging, and longevity: The role of Humanin in stress resistance. Aging Cell, 20(8), e13495.