Humanin
What it is
Humanin is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP), a short 24-amino-acid chain encoded within the mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA region (the MT-RNR2 sequence). It was first identified in 2001 and belongs to a small family of peptides that also includes MOTS-c and the SHLP series.
Research context and categorization
Humanin is generally grouped with anti-aging and longevity research peptides, and it also appears in metabolic and neuroprotection literature. In neutral research-framed terms, it is commonly discussed in relation to cellular stress responses and mitochondrial signaling. It has been investigated for neuronal protection (including early work tied to amyloid-beta toxicity models), oxidative stress and apoptosis in cultured cells, metabolic regulation and glucose handling, skeletal muscle atrophy models, and lifespan and healthspan measures in laboratory organisms.
These are investigational research directions only. Humanin is not FDA-approved, and none of the uses described above are confirmed, established, or approved benefits in humans. The existing evidence base is predominantly preclinical (cell and animal studies), with limited human clinical data.
Status
- Regulatory status: Research-only. Not FDA-approved for any indication; no completed human trials establishing a therapeutic use.
- Sport status: Not specifically listed by name on the WADA Prohibited List. Note that WADA category S2 (Peptide Hormones, Growth Factors, Related Substances and Mimetics) uses broad catch-all language for peptides that affect relevant physiological pathways, so athletes should confirm current status with their sport's anti-doping authority rather than assume it is permitted.
Reconstitution notes (general)
For a lyophilized (freeze-dried) research peptide, concentration equals the milligrams of peptide in the vial divided by the millilitres of bacteriostatic water added. For example, 5 mg of peptide reconstituted with 2 mL of bacteriostatic water gives a concentration of 2.5 mg/mL. You can work this out for any vial and target concentration with the reconstitution calculator at /pages/tools.
Dilution and handling notes (compound-specific)
Humanin is supplied as a lyophilized powder and is water-soluble. A common laboratory practice is to reconstitute it at a concentration of not less than roughly 100 micrograms per millilitre, then dilute further into the desired aqueous buffer, rather than adding a very small volume of water to a large amount of powder. Because Humanin is amphipathic (it carries both hydrophobic and charged regions), it can be prone to aggregation, so lower working concentrations tend to stay in solution more reliably than very concentrated ones. Add the fluid slowly against the inner wall of the vial and swirl gently to dissolve; do not shake or vortex vigorously, since these peptides foam readily and aggressive agitation can physically stress the peptide and complicate dissolution. If a solution turns cloudy in plain water, the first practical step is to reduce concentration by adding more solvent volume. For extended stability of a made-up solution, some protocols add a carrier protein (for example 0.1% HSA or BSA), though that is a lab-stability measure and is not required for short-term handling.
Handling and storage
Store the lyophilized powder cold and dry, protected from moisture and light; long-term storage is best in a freezer. After reconstitution, keep the vial refrigerated at 2 to 8 C, out of direct light. Wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab before drawing, and label the vial with the mix date. A reconstituted solution is generally used within a short refrigerated window, on the order of up to about 4 weeks when kept cold, and it should be discarded sooner if it becomes cloudy or discolored or shows floaters or particulates.
Related reading
Tools and supplies
- Reconstitution & blend calculators
- Bacteriostatic Water 30 ml
- Gansulin Metal Reusable Pen
- 3 ml Glass Cartridges (10-pack)
- Complete Starter Kit
For laboratory and research reference only. Educational content, not medical, dosing, injection, or therapeutic guidance, and not intended for human or animal use. Any research uses described are investigational and not confirmed or approved benefits. Confirm anything involving health with a licensed professional. References linked above.