Mitochondrial-derived peptide · Also known as HN, HNG (S14G analog), Humanin-G
A 24-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome, first discovered in 2001 from brain tissue of Alzheimer's patients. It functions as a stress-response signal from mitochondria, protecting cells from oxidative damage, apoptosis, and metabolic dysfunction.
Humanin was the first identified member of a new class of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs). Research has found that circulating humanin levels decline with age in humans, while centenarians and their children maintain significantly higher levels than age-matched controls. Its potent analog HNG (S14G-humanin) is commonly used in research for enhanced activity.
Humanin acts through both intracellular and extracellular pathways. Inside the cell, it binds pro-apoptotic proteins BAX, Bim, and tBid, directly blocking the cascade that triggers programmed cell death. As a secreted peptide, it activates the trimeric CNTFR/gp130/WSX-1 receptor complex, triggering JAK2/STAT3 signaling that promotes cell survival and reduces inflammation.
Humanin also interacts with the FPRL1 receptor to modulate stress-response kinase pathways (ASK1 and JNK). In metabolic contexts, it improves insulin sensitivity and lipid utilization. Animal studies show that biweekly HNG treatment in middle-aged mice reduced visceral fat, increased lean body mass, and lowered inflammatory markers. These effects position humanin as part of mitohormesis, the process where mitochondrial stress signals trigger protective adaptations throughout the body.
No established human dose
N/ANo established human dose
N/AMost side effects tend to improve as your body adjusts.