HUMANIN

Anti-Aging & LongevityResearch Only

Solid mechanistic understanding with consistent protective effects across multiple animal models, but human studies remain limited to small observational trials. The research foundation is strong enough to warrant continued investigation.

Primarily investigated by mitochondrial biologists, Alzheimer's researchers, and aging scientists studying cellular stress responses.

FDA Status

Research Only

Since Feb 2026

Evidence

Moderate

Studies

30 total, 7 human

What is HUMANIN?

Among the first peptides discovered to be encoded by mitochondrial DNA, this 24-amino acid molecule emerged from Alzheimer's research when scientists noticed certain brain regions showed resistance to neurodegeneration. Longevity researchers have since expanded investigations into its broader cellular protective effects, particularly its ability to shield cells from the molecular damage that accumulates with age.

The peptide binds to specific cell surface receptors (FPRL1 and FPRL2) and activates intracellular survival pathways, essentially telling stressed cells to resist programmed death. It also modulates how cells handle glucose and respond to insulin-like growth factors, while strengthening mitochondrial function—the cellular powerhouses that tend to decline with age and disease.

What the Research Shows

While 30 studies provide good mechanistic insights, only 7 human studies exist and most are small-scale observational work rather than controlled trials.