Humanin
Also known as: HN, MDP
Mitochondrial-derived cytoprotective peptide studied for neuroprotection, metabolic health, and longevity.
Anti-Aging & Longevity
Humanin
Research use only. Human evidence is largely observational; not FDA-approved.
Overview
Humanin is one of the first mitochondrial-derived peptides identified, named for its cytoprotective effects. It has been studied for protecting cells against stress, supporting metabolic and cardiovascular health, and its association with longevity.
Humanin was one of the first mitochondrial-derived peptides ever identified, and it was named for its striking cytoprotective effect — its ability to keep cells alive under stress. It works largely by interfering with the cell-death (apoptosis) machinery, binding pro-apoptotic proteins like Bax, while also reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. This makes it a peptide of intense interest in neurodegeneration, metabolic disease, and aging research.
What makes humanin especially interesting for the longevity world is that higher natural humanin levels have been associated with longer lifespan in some human observational studies, and levels tend to fall with age. Preclinical work links it to protection in Alzheimer models, improved insulin sensitivity, and cardioprotection. As with most mitochondrial-derived peptides, there is no approved clinical use yet and much of the strongest evidence is still in cell and animal models.
Mechanism of Action
Acts through a cell-surface receptor complex and interacts with apoptotic proteins (Bax), suppressing programmed cell death and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Use Cases
- ✓Neuroprotection (Alzheimer research models)
- ✓Metabolic and cardiovascular support
- ✓Cellular stress resistance
- ✓Longevity research
Research Summary
Preclinical work links humanin to reduced neurodegeneration, improved insulin sensitivity, and cardioprotection. Higher circulating humanin has been associated with longevity in some human observational studies. No approved clinical use.
Explain It Like I'm 5 Years Old
Sometimes cells get so stressed or damaged that they decide to shut themselves down. Humanin is like a calm bodyguard that steps in and says, hang on, do not give up yet — and helps the cell survive and recover instead. Your body naturally makes more of it when it is younger, and scientists think that is part of why it may matter for healthy aging.
How the Gym Bros Are Using It
A deep-longevity play rather than a gym staple. The people running humanin are chasing cellular resilience and healthy aging, not a pump. The interesting hook is that people who live longer tend to have more of it naturally, and it drops as you age. Evidence in humans is mostly observational, so this is frontier biohacking territory — of interest if your goals are brain protection and long-term metabolic health rather than next-week performance.
Verified Sources for Humanin
OMNI Peptides
Las Vegas, NV
UPGUYS Health
Etobicoke, ON
Boss Peptides
Calgary, AB
XPeptides
Ottawa, ON
Great Northern Peptides
Edmonton, AB
Anglo Peptide Canada
Toronto, ON
Pharma Lab Global Canada
Montreal, QC
UPGUYS
Toronto, ON
Titan Peptide Lab
Online, US
Barcelona Peptide Supply
Barcelona, Catalonia
London Peptide Co.
London, England
Cape Town Peptide Clinic
Cape Town, Western Cape