In plain English
Humanin is a tiny peptide coded in the DNA of mitochondria, the energy centers of your cells. It acts as a “stay alive” signal, protecting cells from stress. Levels fall with age, and children of very long-lived people tend to have higher levels.
What it's used for
- Healthy aging
- Brain protection
- Insulin sensitivity and metabolism
- Heart and blood vessel health (being studied)
Benefits
In animal studies, humanin protected brain cells in Alzheimer’s models, improved insulin sensitivity and reduced heart damage, and in mice it improved healthspan. In human studies, higher natural levels were linked to longevity. Users report better energy and recovery.
How it works
In simple terms: humanin is a “keep going” message from your mitochondria.
It binds receptors on the cell surface and inside cells, blocking signals that trigger cell death, reducing inflammation and improving insulin signaling.
Development history
- 2001: Discovered by Ikuo Nishimoto’s team while searching for factors protecting brain cells from Alzheimer’s damage.
- Later: Recognized as the first of several mitochondrial-derived peptides, alongside MOTS-c.
Typical protocols
There is no established human dose. These ranges are what users commonly report.
| Use | Dose | Frequency | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longevity | 1–2 mg | 2–3 times a week | 4–8 weeks |
Cycling
Commonly run for 4–8 weeks, then a break.
Administration options
Subcutaneous injection.
Reconstitution and dosing calculator
Usually comes in 5 mg or 10 mg vials, mixed with 2 mL of bacteriostatic water.
Draw your syringe to
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Show the math
This tool does arithmetic only. It does not choose a dose or confirm that any substance is right for you. Double-check every result against your syringe and your clinician’s instructions.
Side effects and safety
- Users report it is generally well tolerated; injection-site redness occasionally.
- No formal safety data in people.
- Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Common stacks
- MOTS-c: the other well-known mitochondrial peptide.
- SS-31: for mitochondrial support.
Storage
Powder: refrigerate or freeze. After mixing: refrigerate at 2–8 °C and use within about 3 weeks.
Compare with
- MOTS-c: also mitochondrial, more focused on metabolism and exercise.
- SS-31: protects the inner mitochondrial membrane.
Frequently asked questions
Humanin or MOTS-c?
Both come from mitochondria. Humanin is more about cell protection and the brain; MOTS-c is more about metabolism.
References
- Hashimoto Y, et al. A rescue factor abolishing neuronal cell death by a wide spectrum of familial Alzheimer's disease genes and Aβ. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2001;98(11):6336-6341.
- Yen K, et al. Humanin prevents age-related cognitive decline in mice and is associated with improved cognitive age in humans. Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):14212.