Humanin
Lab-Tested ≥98% Purity · Certificate of Analysis Included · Global Shipping
Humanin — Mitochondrial-Derived Cytoprotective Peptide for Aging and Metabolic Research
Humanin is a 24-amino acid micropeptide encoded by the mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA gene (MT-RNR2). First discovered by Hashimoto et al. (2001) in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences during a functional screen for neuroprotective factors, Humanin represents the first identified mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) with demonstrated cytoprotective activity. Its discovery opened an entirely new field of research into mitochondrial-encoded signaling molecules and their role in cellular stress response, aging, and metabolic regulation.
Mechanism of Action
Humanin exerts its cytoprotective effects through multiple receptor-mediated and intracellular mechanisms. Extracellularly, it binds the trimeric receptor complex composed of CNTFR, WSX-1, and gp130, activating JAK2/STAT3 signaling cascades that upregulate pro-survival gene expression. Humanin also binds IGFBP-3 and Bax protein intracellularly, preventing Bax-mediated mitochondrial membrane permeabilization and cytochrome c release. Additionally, it activates AMPK signaling and enhances mitochondrial bioenergetics through PGC-1α pathway modulation.
Key Research Areas
- Neuroprotection: Research has demonstrated that Humanin protects neurons against amyloid-β toxicity, glutamate excitotoxicity, and serum deprivation-induced apoptosis in primary cortical neuron cultures, with effective concentrations in the nanomolar range.
- Mitochondrial Biology: As the founding member of the MDP family, Humanin has enabled researchers to characterize mitochondrial-nuclear retrograde signaling pathways, revealing how mitochondrial genome-encoded peptides regulate cellular stress responses.
- Metabolic Regulation: Studies in diet-induced obesity models have shown that Humanin improves insulin sensitivity, reduces hepatic gluconeogenesis, and enhances peripheral glucose uptake through AMPK-dependent mechanisms.
- Aging Biomarker: Circulating Humanin levels decline with age in multiple species, and epidemiological studies have correlated higher Humanin levels with improved metabolic parameters in elderly human cohorts, establishing it as a potential aging biomarker.
Technical Specifications
- Dosage per vial: 5mg lyophilized powder
- Purity: ≥98% (HPLC verified)
- Sequence: MAPRGFSCLLLLTSEIDLPVKRRA (24 aa)
- Molecular Weight: ~2,687 Da
- Storage: -20°C, protected from light
Why Researchers Choose Peptides BioLab
Every batch of Humanin supplied by Peptides BioLab undergoes rigorous HPLC and mass spectrometry analysis, ensuring ≥98% purity verified by an independent Certificate of Analysis (CoA). Our product is supplied as a lyophilized powder for maximum stability, shipped worldwide in temperature-controlled packaging.
Related Research Peptides
Researchers studying mitochondrial peptides and cellular protection may also find these compounds relevant: MOTS-c, SS-31, and Epitalon. For a complete overview, browse our Anti-Aging Research and Cellular Energy Research collections.
For research purposes only — Not for human consumption. All products are intended solely for in-vitro research and laboratory use.
Every Peptides BioLab product includes a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with HPLC and MS data confirming ≥98% purity. The CoA is available in the product tabs as the 2nd image, or contact our team to request a copy.
Shipping: We ship worldwide from our state-of-the-art facilities. Orders are processed within 1–2 business days. Express and standard shipping options available at checkout.
Storage: Store lyophilized peptides at -20°C for long-term storage. Once reconstituted, store at 2–8°C and use within 30 days. Keep away from direct sunlight.
