Humanin (HN) Dosage Guide

Evidence-based protocols for the mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by MT-RNR2 — subcutaneous and intranasal dosing for neuroprotection, longevity, metabolic health, cardiovascular support, and stacking strategies.

Compiled by PeptideWiki Editorial Team·Last reviewed February 24, 2026

A leading innovator in research chemicals.

All products HPLC tested

|Exclusive Offer

Coupon

10%

Off

Use our affiliate link and code PEPTIDEWIKI at checkout to unlock your 10% discount, every time you use the code.

Shop Now

For research purposes only. PeptideWiki may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Research Peptides

Humanin

For research purposes only. PeptideWiki may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

What Is Humanin?

Humanin (HN) is a 24-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded by the MT-RNR2 gene within mitochondrial DNA. Discovered in 2001 during a screen for survival factors that protect neurons against Alzheimer's disease-related toxicity, Humanin is one of the most extensively studied MDPs alongside MOTS-c and the SHLP (small humanin-like peptide) family.

Humanin's primary mechanism is cytoprotection — it prevents programmed cell death (apoptosis) by directly binding BAX, a pro-apoptotic protein that triggers the mitochondrial death pathway. By neutralizing BAX, Humanin keeps cells alive that would otherwise self-destruct under stress. Beyond this anti-apoptotic action, Humanin binds the tripartite CNTF receptor/WSX-1/gp130 complex, activating STAT3 signaling pathways that promote cell survival, insulin sensitization, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Circulating Humanin levels decline significantly with age, and this decline correlates with the onset of age-related diseases including neurodegeneration, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. Exogenous Humanin supplementation aims to restore these declining levels. Synthetic analogs such as HNG (S14G-Humanin), which is approximately 1,000 times more potent than native Humanin, have been developed for research use.

Use our Peptide Dosage to calculate your exact subcutaneous dose based on vial size and concentration.

Dosing information in this guide is derived from preclinical studies and community protocols — not from approved pharmaceutical labeling.

Key Characteristics:

Mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) — encoded by the MT-RNR2 gene in mitochondrial DNA; 24 amino acids; one of the founding members of the MDP family discovered in 2001
Cytoprotective / anti-apoptotic — directly binds BAX to prevent mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis; keeps stressed cells alive that would otherwise undergo programmed death
Neuroprotective — protects neurons against amyloid-beta toxicity, tau phosphorylation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction; originally discovered as an Alzheimer’s survival factor
Insulin-sensitizing — binds the CNTF/WSX-1/gp130 receptor complex, activating STAT3 signaling that improves glucose tolerance and peripheral insulin sensitivity
Age-related decline — circulating levels decrease significantly with aging, correlating with increased susceptibility to neurodegeneration, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease
Synthetic analogs available — HNG (S14G-Humanin) is ~1,000x more potent; HNGF6A offers enhanced stability; most current research uses HNG due to dramatically improved efficacy

For a complete overview of its mechanism and research, see our full Humanin profile. New to peptides? Start with the Beginner's Guide to Peptides.

How Humanin Dosage Is Determined

Humanin dosing is primarily informed by preclinical animal studies and limited community experience. Unlike peptides with extensive human clinical pharmacology data (such as growth hormone secretagogues), Humanin's dosing protocols are largely extrapolated from animal models of neurodegeneration, metabolic disease, and cardiovascular protection. The dose ranges below represent the best available estimates based on current research and community reports.

Original Neuroprotection Discovery

Humanin was identified in 2001 by Hashimoto et al. through a functional screen for genes that protect neurons against amyloid precursor protein (APP)-induced cell death. The discovery that a small peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA could prevent neuronal apoptosis was groundbreaking and launched the entire field of mitochondrial-derived peptide research. Initial in vitro studies demonstrated neuroprotection at nanomolar to low micromolar concentrations.

Preclinical Dose-Response Studies

Animal studies have used Humanin doses ranging from 0.1 to 10 mg/kg administered via intraperitoneal injection, subcutaneous injection, or intracerebroventricular infusion. Studies in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease demonstrated improved spatial memory and reduced amyloid plaque burden at doses in the mg/kg range. Metabolic studies showed improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance at similar dose ranges. The HNG analog (S14G-Humanin) achieves comparable effects at doses approximately 1,000-fold lower due to its dramatically enhanced potency.

CNTF/WSX-1/gp130 Receptor Binding Studies

Guo et al. characterized Humanin's binding to the tripartite CNTF receptor complex (CNTFRα/WSX-1/gp130), demonstrating that this interaction drives STAT3 phosphorylation and downstream cytoprotective and insulin-sensitizing signaling. The binding affinity and dose-response relationships from these studies support the milligram-range dosing for native Humanin and microgram-range dosing for HNG used in community protocols.

Community-Derived Protocols

Given the absence of formal human clinical dosing data, community protocols for native Humanin have converged around 1–5 mg subcutaneously once daily. This range is derived from allometric scaling of preclinical doses and refined through community experience. The range is wide because individual responses vary and the optimal dose for different goals (neuroprotection vs. metabolic health vs. general longevity) may differ.

Strength of evidence: Strong preclinical, very limited clinical. Humanin has extensive preclinical data across neurodegeneration, metabolism, and cardiovascular models, with well-characterized receptor binding and signaling pathways. However, published human clinical trials are extremely limited. Dosing protocols are based on preclinical pharmacology and community experience. This is a research peptide — not an approved therapeutic.

Standard Humanin Dosage Ranges

Humanin is primarily administered via subcutaneous injection. The optimal dose depends on the specific form used (native Humanin vs. HNG analog), the target condition, and individual response. Always verify which form you have before dosing — the difference between native Humanin and HNG potency is approximately 1,000-fold.

Native Humanin (Subcutaneous)

Level	Dose per Injection	Frequency	Daily Total	Notes
Starting	1 mg	1x daily	1 mg	Assess tolerance for 1–2 weeks before increasing
Standard	2–3 mg	1x daily	2–3 mg	Most common community protocol for general cytoprotection
Higher Range	5 mg	1x daily	5 mg	Upper end of community-reported dosing; for targeted neuroprotection protocols

HNG / S14G-Humanin Analog (Subcutaneous)

Level	Dose per Injection	Frequency	Daily Total	Notes
Starting	1–5 mcg	1x daily	1–5 mcg	~1,000x more potent than native HN; start very low
Standard	5–10 mcg	1x daily	5–10 mcg	Equivalent to 5–10 mg native Humanin in cytoprotective potency
Higher Range	10–20 mcg	1x daily	10–20 mcg	Upper research range; limited community data at this level

Intranasal (Experimental)

Dose: 1–3 mg native Humanin per administration (intranasal bioavailability data is limited)
Frequency: 1x daily
Rationale: Intranasal delivery may provide some direct CNS access via the olfactory pathway, bypassing the blood-brain barrier — particularly relevant for neuroprotective applications
Note: This route is the least established; subcutaneous injection remains the standard for reliable systemic delivery

Critical: Verify your form before dosing. Native Humanin and HNG (S14G-Humanin) have a ~1,000-fold potency difference. Using native Humanin doses with the HNG analog would result in massive overdosing. Always confirm which form you have and dose accordingly. If unsure, assume you have the more potent HNG and start at the lowest microgram range.

Administration Routes Compared

Unlike small tripeptides that may survive oral ingestion, Humanin's 24-amino-acid structure requires parenteral (non-oral) administration for reliable delivery. Subcutaneous injection is the primary route. IV administration is used in some research settings, and intranasal is an experimental option for CNS-targeted protocols.

Parameter	Subcutaneous	Intravenous	Intranasal
Typical Dose (Native HN)	1–5 mg	0.5–3 mg	1–3 mg
Bioavailability	High (reliable)	100% (direct)	Variable (mucosal)
Best For	General use / all goals	Research settings	CNS-targeted protocols
CNS Access	Via systemic circulation (BBB limited)	Via systemic circulation (BBB limited)	Potential direct access (olfactory pathway)
Ease of Use	Requires injection	Requires IV setup	Easy (nasal spray)
Community Popularity	Most popular	Rare (clinical/research only)	Growing interest
Key Advantage	Reliable systemic delivery	Immediate full bioavailability	Potential BBB bypass for neuroprotection

Why intranasal is gaining interest: Humanin's neuroprotective applications are among its most compelling research areas, but the blood-brain barrier (BBB) limits how much systemically administered peptide reaches the brain. Intranasal delivery may allow some Humanin to reach the CNS directly via the olfactory nerve pathway, bypassing the BBB. While this route is still experimental with limited absorption data, it is increasingly explored in neuroprotection research. Subcutaneous injection remains the standard for reliable systemic delivery.

Calculate Your Humanin Dose

Native Humanin is typically supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in 5 mg or 10 mg vials. You reconstitute it with bacteriostatic water, then draw your dose using an insulin syringe. The concentration depends on how much water you add to the vial.

Worked Example (Native Humanin):

Vial size: 5 mg (5,000 mcg) of Humanin
Bacteriostatic water added: 1 mL
Concentration: 5 mg ÷ 1 mL = 5 mg per mL
Target dose: 2 mg
Volume to draw: 2 ÷ 5 = 0.4 mL = 40 units on an insulin syringe

Quick Reference — 5 mg Vial (Native Humanin)

Bac Water Added	Concentration	1 mg Dose	2 mg Dose	5 mg Dose
0.5 mL	10 mg/mL	10 units (0.1 mL)	20 units (0.2 mL)	50 units (0.5 mL)
1 mL	5 mg/mL	20 units (0.2 mL)	40 units (0.4 mL)	100 units (1 mL)
2 mL	2.5 mg/mL	40 units (0.4 mL)	80 units (0.8 mL)	Full vial

Skip the Math — Use Our

Enter your vial size, water volume, and desired dose — get instant calculations with zero manual math.

Humanin Dosage by Goal

Humanin's multi-target mechanism (BAX binding, CNTF/WSX-1/gp130 receptor activation, STAT3 signaling) makes it applicable across several research areas. The optimal protocol varies depending on whether you are targeting neuroprotection, metabolic health, cardiovascular support, or general longevity.

Neuroprotection & Cognitive Support

The most extensively researched application of Humanin. Targets neuronal survival via BAX binding (preventing apoptosis), reduction of amyloid-beta toxicity, decreased tau hyperphosphorylation, and preservation of mitochondrial membrane potential in neurons. Relevant for age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease research, and general brain health.

Route: Subcutaneous (standard) or intranasal (experimental, for potential direct CNS access)
Dose: 2–5 mg native Humanin daily (SubQ) or 1–3 mg intranasal
Frequency: 1x daily, typically in the morning
Duration: 8–12 weeks minimum; neuroprotective effects build gradually
Stack: + Selank or Semax for synergistic neuroprotection (Humanin prevents apoptosis + Selank/Semax promote neurotrophic signaling)

Metabolic Health & Insulin Sensitization

Humanin improves insulin sensitivity via CNTF/WSX-1/gp130 receptor activation and downstream STAT3 signaling. This enhances glucose uptake, reduces hepatic glucose output, and improves peripheral insulin sensitivity. Preclinical studies have demonstrated improved glucose tolerance in diabetic and obese animal models.

Route: Subcutaneous injection
Dose: 2–3 mg native Humanin daily
Frequency: 1x daily
Duration: 8–12 weeks; monitor fasting glucose and insulin markers
Stack: + MOTS-c 5–10 mg 3–5x per week for comprehensive metabolic support (Humanin insulin sensitization + MOTS-c AMPK activation and glucose regulation)

Cardiovascular Protection

Humanin has demonstrated cardioprotective effects in preclinical models of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, atherosclerosis, and endothelial dysfunction. It protects cardiomyocytes from apoptosis, reduces oxidative stress in vascular tissue, and improves endothelial function through STAT3-mediated signaling.

Route: Subcutaneous injection
Dose: 1–3 mg native Humanin daily
Frequency: 1x daily
Duration: 8–12 weeks
Stack: + SS-31 (Elamipretide) for complementary mitochondrial and cardiovascular support (Humanin anti-apoptotic protection + SS-31 cardiolipin stabilization and mitochondrial efficiency)

Longevity & Anti-Aging

The longevity application is based on the observation that Humanin levels decline with age and that this decline correlates with age-related disease. Supplementation aims to restore youthful MDP levels, providing broad cytoprotection, improved mitochondrial function, and resistance to age-related cellular stress. This is the most common community use case.

Route: Subcutaneous injection
Dose: 1–3 mg native Humanin daily
Frequency: 1x daily or 5 days on / 2 days off
Duration: Ongoing cycles of 8–12 weeks on, 4 weeks off
Stack: + MOTS-c + Epitalon for a comprehensive longevity protocol (mitochondrial protection + metabolic optimization + telomere maintenance)

Patience is key. Humanin's effects are fundamentally cellular and mitochondrial — it protects cells from apoptosis, improves mitochondrial function, and enhances insulin signaling at the receptor level. These are not rapid, perceptible effects like the GH pulse from a GHRP injection. Benefits accumulate gradually over weeks to months. Consistent, sustained use within a well-designed protocol is essential.

Cycling & Duration

Humanin does not act on cell-surface receptors that are known to desensitize with repeated stimulation (unlike GHS-R1a agonists such as Hexarelin). Its primary mechanisms — BAX binding and CNTF/WSX-1/gp130 receptor signaling — are not associated with the rapid tolerance development seen with some other peptide classes. However, cycling is still recommended due to limited long-term human safety data and the theoretical concern about sustained anti-apoptotic signaling.

Protocol	On-Period	Off-Period	Notes
Standard	8–12 weeks	4 weeks off	Most common community cycling pattern; allows reassessment and health monitoring
Conservative	4–8 weeks	4 weeks off	For first-time users or those with elevated cancer risk concerns
5/2 Schedule	5 days on / 2 days off (ongoing)	Built in	Popular longevity approach; provides regular micro-breaks while maintaining consistent levels
Extended Longevity	12–16 weeks	4–6 weeks off	For experienced users with clean health monitoring; longer on-period for gradual mitochondrial benefits

Why off-periods matter more for Humanin than some peptides: Humanin's anti-apoptotic mechanism (BAX binding) is a double-edged sword. Preventing cell death is protective for healthy cells under stress, but prolonged, uninterrupted anti-apoptotic signaling could theoretically interfere with the body's normal ability to eliminate damaged, precancerous, or senescent cells. Regular off-periods allow the body to restore normal apoptotic surveillance. This theoretical concern is why periodic breaks are more strongly recommended for Humanin than for peptides that do not affect apoptosis.

When to Extend or Shorten a Cycle

Extend beyond 12 weeks only if health monitoring (bloodwork, screening) is clean and you have experience with Humanin. Neuroprotective benefits in particular may require extended consistent use to manifest.
Shorten to 4–6 weeks if you are a first-time user, have a family history of cancer, or experience any concerning symptoms during use.
Consider the 5/2 schedule as a balanced approach for long-term longevity protocols — it provides consistent peptide exposure with built-in recovery days.
Always get bloodwork before starting, at the midpoint of your cycle, and after completion to monitor metabolic markers, inflammatory markers, and general health.

Humanin Stacking Protocols

Humanin stacks well with peptides that target complementary aspects of cellular health, mitochondrial function, and neuroprotection. Its unique anti-apoptotic and insulin-sensitizing mechanisms pair naturally with metabolic peptides, mitochondrial enhancers, and neuroprotective agents. The most rational stacks combine Humanin with other mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) or peptides that act through independent signaling pathways.

Humanin + MOTS-c — The MDP Longevity Stack (Most Popular)

The flagship mitochondrial-derived peptide combination. Humanin provides cytoprotection and anti-apoptotic signaling (BAX binding, STAT3 activation), while MOTS-c activates AMPK for metabolic regulation, glucose homeostasis, and exercise-mimetic effects. Both peptides are encoded in mitochondrial DNA, both decline with age, and their mechanisms are fully complementary — Humanin protects cells from death while MOTS-c optimizes their energy metabolism.

Compound	Dose	Route	Purpose
Humanin	1–3 mg, 1x daily	SubQ	Cytoprotection; BAX binding; anti-apoptotic; insulin sensitization via STAT3
MOTS-c	5–10 mg, 3–5x per week	SubQ	AMPK activation; glucose regulation; exercise mimetic; metabolic optimization

Protocol note: This is the most natural peptide stack in existence — both compounds are produced by human mitochondria and decline with age. The combination aims to restore youthful MDP levels by addressing both the cytoprotective (Humanin) and metabolic (MOTS-c) arms of mitochondrial signaling simultaneously.

Humanin + SS-31 / Elamipretide (Mitochondrial Optimization)

Combines Humanin's anti-apoptotic cellular protection with SS-31's direct mitochondrial membrane stabilization. SS-31 (Elamipretide) targets the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing cardiolipin and optimizing electron transport chain efficiency. While Humanin prevents cell death from mitochondrial stress, SS-31 prevents the mitochondrial stress from occurring in the first place — an upstream/downstream complementary approach.

Compound	Dose	Route	Purpose
Humanin	1–3 mg, 1x daily	SubQ	Anti-apoptotic protection; BAX neutralization; cell survival signaling
SS-31	5–20 mg, 1x daily	SubQ	Cardiolipin stabilization; ETC optimization; mitochondrial membrane integrity

Humanin + Epitalon (Anti-Aging / Longevity)

Pairs Humanin's mitochondrial cytoprotection with Epitalon's telomerase activation and pineal gland support. Epitalon stimulates telomerase to maintain telomere length (a key biomarker of cellular aging), while Humanin protects cells from mitochondrial-driven apoptosis. This stack targets two of the major hallmarks of aging — mitochondrial dysfunction and telomere shortening — through independent mechanisms.

Compound	Dose	Route	Purpose
Humanin	1–3 mg, 1x daily	SubQ	Mitochondrial cytoprotection; anti-apoptotic; insulin sensitization
Epitalon	5–10 mg, 1x daily (10–20 day cycles)	SubQ	Telomerase activation; telomere maintenance; pineal gland support

Humanin + Selank or Semax (Neuroprotection Stack)

A neuroprotection-focused stack combining Humanin's anti-apoptotic neuronal protection with either Selank (anxiolytic, immunomodulatory, BDNF-enhancing) or Semax (neurotrophic, BDNF/NGF-enhancing, cognitive enhancement). Humanin prevents neurons from dying while Selank/Semax promote the growth and function of surviving neurons — protecting existing neurons and enhancing neuroplasticity simultaneously.

Compound	Dose	Route	Purpose
Humanin	2–5 mg, 1x daily	SubQ	Neuronal survival; BAX binding; mitochondrial protection in CNS
Selank or Semax	200–600 mcg, 1–2x daily	Intranasal	BDNF/NGF upregulation; neuroplasticity; cognitive enhancement

Anti-apoptotic stacking consideration. Avoid stacking Humanin with other strong anti-apoptotic compounds unless you have a clear rationale and medical guidance. The theoretical concern about suppressing apoptosis too broadly applies to any combination that further inhibits programmed cell death. Stick to stacks where the partner peptide acts through clearly independent mechanisms (metabolic, neurotrophic, mitochondrial membrane) rather than additional anti-apoptotic pathways.

Explore more combinations with our Peptide Stack Builder or browse the Top 10 Peptide Stacks guide.

Safety, Side Effects & Contraindications

Safety Profile: Humanin has been generally well-tolerated in preclinical animal studies with no major adverse effects reported at research doses. As an endogenously produced peptide (made by your own mitochondria), exogenous supplementation aims to restore declining natural levels rather than introduce a foreign compound. However, human clinical safety data is very limited, and the potent anti-apoptotic mechanism raises theoretical concerns about cancer cell protection that must be taken seriously. This is a research peptide — not an approved drug.

Reported Side Effects

Generally mild based on available preclinical and community data:

Injection site reactions (SubQ) — minor redness, soreness, or swelling at the injection site; standard for any subcutaneous peptide injection
Mild headache — reported by some users, typically transient and self-resolving within the first week
Possible mild fatigue or drowsiness — some users report initial fatigue as mitochondrial signaling adjusts; usually resolves with continued use
Nasal irritation (intranasal route) — mild irritation at the nasal mucosa with intranasal administration

Critical Theoretical Concern: Anti-Apoptotic Effects and Cancer

The most important safety consideration with Humanin is its potent anti-apoptotic mechanism. By binding BAX and preventing mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, Humanin could theoretically protect cancer cells from the programmed death signals that normally destroy them. Some preclinical studies have shown Humanin can promote survival of certain cancer cell lines in vitro.

Individuals with active cancer should NOT use Humanin without explicit oncologist approval
Those with a recent cancer history or strong genetic cancer predisposition should exercise extreme caution
Regular cancer screening and health monitoring is recommended during any Humanin protocol
Cycling with off-periods is recommended to allow normal apoptotic surveillance to resume

Nuance on the cancer concern: The relationship between Humanin and cancer is complex. While some studies show potential pro-survival effects on cancer cells, others suggest more nuanced, context-dependent interactions. Humanin is an endogenous peptide produced by all human cells — its natural role is cellular protection, not cancer promotion. However, until more research clarifies this relationship, the precautionary principle applies. This remains an active area of investigation.

Contraindications

Active cancer or recent cancer history — Humanin's anti-apoptotic mechanism could theoretically interfere with cancer cell destruction. Consult an oncologist before any use.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding — no safety data exists for Humanin during pregnancy or nursing. Anti-apoptotic effects could theoretically interfere with normal developmental apoptosis. Avoid entirely.
Immunocompromised individuals — those with compromised immune function should consult a healthcare provider, as altering apoptotic signaling could have complex immune system effects.
Children and adolescents — developmental apoptosis is critical in growing organisms. No safety data exists for pediatric use. Do not use.
Known hypersensitivity — discontinue use if allergic reactions occur (rash, hives, difficulty breathing).

When to Stop or Reduce Dose

Any signs of allergic reaction (rash, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Persistent or worsening headache beyond the first 1–2 weeks
Any abnormal findings on health monitoring or bloodwork during a cycle
Development of unexplained lumps, masses, or changes that could indicate abnormal cell growth
Any symptom that feels unusual or concerning — err on the side of caution with an anti-apoptotic peptide

Regulatory Status: Humanin is not FDA-approved for human use. It is classified as a research peptide. It is not available as a dietary supplement or wellness product in most jurisdictions. Regulations vary significantly by country and state — verify your local laws before purchasing.

Common Humanin Dosing Mistakes

Avoid these common errors to get the most out of your Humanin protocol:

Using native Humanin doses when taking the HNG analog (or vice versa): HNG (S14G-Humanin) is approximately 1,000 times more potent than native Humanin. Using native Humanin doses with the HNG analog could result in massive overdosing. Always verify which form you have and adjust doses accordingly. HNG doses are measured in micrograms, while native Humanin community doses are in milligrams.

Attempting oral administration: Humanin is a 24-amino-acid peptide that will be destroyed by stomach acid and digestive enzymes. Unlike small tripeptides (e.g., KPV), Humanin cannot survive GI transit. Subcutaneous injection is the standard route. Do not waste product on oral dosing.

Ignoring the theoretical cancer risk of anti-apoptotic peptides: Humanin’s primary mechanism involves preventing programmed cell death (apoptosis) by binding BAX. While this is protective for neurons and healthy cells, it could theoretically shield cancer cells from apoptotic destruction. Individuals with active cancer, a recent cancer history, or high genetic cancer risk should exercise extreme caution and consult an oncologist before using Humanin.

Expecting immediate cognitive or neuroprotective benefits: Humanin’s neuroprotective and metabolic effects build gradually over weeks to months. Mitochondrial function improvement, cellular protection, and insulin sensitization are not overnight processes. Community reports suggest noticeable benefits typically emerge after 4–8 weeks of consistent use. Do not abandon the protocol after a few days.

Not storing reconstituted Humanin properly: Like all reconstituted peptides, Humanin solution should be stored refrigerated (2–8°C) and used within 3–4 weeks. Humanin is a relatively large peptide that is susceptible to degradation at room temperature. Use bacteriostatic water for reconstitution and avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

Assuming Humanin replaces other neuroprotective or metabolic interventions: Humanin is a research peptide, not an approved treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease. It should complement — not replace — evidence-based medical treatments prescribed by your healthcare provider. Never discontinue prescribed medications in favor of a research peptide.

Using Humanin without understanding its relationship to other MDPs: Humanin is one member of the mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) family, which includes MOTS-c and SHLP peptides. Each MDP has distinct mechanisms and targets. Understanding where Humanin fits in the MDP landscape helps with rational stacking and protocol design. Humanin is primarily cytoprotective and anti-apoptotic, while MOTS-c is primarily metabolic and exercise-mimetic.

Skipping bloodwork and health monitoring during extended use: Given Humanin’s limited human safety data and its potent anti-apoptotic mechanism, periodic health monitoring is essential during extended protocols. Consider baseline and follow-up bloodwork including metabolic panels, inflammatory markers, and cancer screening markers as appropriate. This is a research peptide with theoretical safety concerns that warrant vigilance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

Humanin is a 24-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) — encoded by MT-RNR2 in mitochondrial DNA; discovered in 2001 as an Alzheimer's disease survival factor
Primary mechanism: cytoprotection via BAX binding — prevents mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis; also activates STAT3 via the CNTF/WSX-1/gp130 receptor complex for insulin sensitization and anti-inflammatory effects
Levels decline with age — correlating with neurodegeneration, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease; supplementation aims to restore youthful levels
Native Humanin: 1–5 mg SubQ daily is the standard community dose range; start at 1 mg and titrate
HNG analog is ~1,000x more potent — verify which form you have before dosing; HNG doses are in the microgram range
Not orally bioavailable — subcutaneous injection is the primary route; intranasal is experimental for CNS access
Gold standard stack: Humanin + MOTS-c for comprehensive mitochondrial-derived peptide support (cytoprotection + metabolic optimization)
Cycling: 8–12 weeks on, 4 weeks off — off-periods are particularly important due to anti-apoptotic mechanism and theoretical cancer concern
Critical safety concern: anti-apoptotic effects and cancer — avoid with active cancer, recent cancer history, or high genetic cancer risk; get regular health monitoring
Not FDA-approved — classified as a research peptide. Strong preclinical data across neurodegeneration, metabolism, and cardiovascular models, but very limited human clinical data. Consult a healthcare provider.

This article is for educational and informational purposes only. See our Disclaimer.

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. PubMed
Guo B, et al. “Humanin peptide suppresses apoptosis by interfering with Bax activation.” Nature. 2003;423(6938):456-461. PubMed
Hashimoto Y, et al. “Detailed characterization of neuroprotection by a rescue factor humanin against various Alzheimer's disease-relevant insults.” J Neurosci. 2001;21(23):9235-9245. PubMed
Muzumdar RH, et al. “Humanin: a novel central regulator of peripheral insulin action.” PLoS One. 2009;4(7):e6334. PubMed
Yen K, et al. “The mitochondrial derived peptide humanin is a regulator of lifespan and healthspan.” Aging (Albany NY). 2020;12(12):11185-11199. PubMed
Lee C, et al. “The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance.” Cell Metab. 2015;21(3):443-454. PubMed
Muzumdar RH, et al. “Acute humanin therapy attenuates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in mice.” Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2010;30(10):1940-1948. PubMed
Tajima H, et al. “Evidence for in vivo production of Humanin peptide, a neuroprotective factor against Alzheimer's disease-related insults.” Neurosci Lett. 2002;324(3):227-231. PubMed
Cobb LJ, et al. “Naturally occurring mitochondrial-derived peptides are age-dependent regulators of apoptosis, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory markers.” Aging (Albany NY). 2016;8(4):796-809. PubMed

Next Steps

Continue your research with these resources.

MOTS-c Dosage Guide

Learn dosing protocols for MOTS-c — the metabolic mitochondrial-derived peptide and Humanin’s most popular stacking partner.

Read Guide

Dosage Calculator

Calculate your exact Humanin subcutaneous dose based on vial size and reconstitution volume.

Open Calculator

Peptide Directory

Browse all peptides with research summaries and dosing data.

View Directory