Humanin
A cytoprotective mitochondrial-derived peptide studied in stress and ageing.
EndogenousPreclinical
Identity
- Class
- Mitochondrial-derived peptide (24 aa, encoded in 16S rRNA)
- Source
- Encoded in mitochondrial DNA
- Receptor
- Proposed receptors incl. a trimeric receptor and intracellular targets
Mechanism
Humanin is a mitochondrial-encoded peptide with broad cytoprotective and anti-apoptotic effects, studied in neuroprotection, metabolic stress, and ageing. Several signaling routes have been proposed, but its full mechanism and human physiology are still being characterized.
Reference notes
- Like MOTS-c, it is encoded in mitochondrial DNA — part of the emerging mitochondrial-derived-peptide class.
- Its hallmark is cytoprotection — limiting cell death under stress.
- The evidence base is mostly preclinical; human roles remain under study.
Selected literature
Curated peer-reviewed reviews, sourced from PubMed. Selected for relevance, not exhaustive — open any entry on PubMed for the full record and its primary citations.
- 1.Humanin and Its Pathophysiological Roles in Aging: A Systematic Review · Biology, 2023 · PMID 37106758
- 2.Humanin and diabetes mellitus: A review of in vitro and in vivo studies · World journal of diabetes, 2022 · PMID 35432758