Humanin

A tiny peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA that protected brain cells in early Alzheimer's research. Studied only in cells and animals.

Evidence: Primarily preclinical research
Half-life: Not known
Sources: 2 cited

Is humanin FDA-approved?

Not approved by the FDA. Products sold online as "research chemicals" aren't checked for purity, sterility or dose.

Overview

Humanin was discovered in 2001 while searching for factors that protect neurons from Alzheimer's-related damage. Natural blood levels tend to fall with age, and higher levels have been linked to longer lifespan in some animal studies. Synthetic versions (like HNG) have only been tested in cells and animals.

How it works

It binds receptors on the cell surface and inside cells that block programmed cell death and reduce stress signaling.

How long does humanin stay in the body?

Not established in people.

What it's studied for

Brain cell protection
Aging
Insulin sensitivity

Sources

The studies and prescribing labels this page is written from.