VialOwlLibrary / Longevity
Humanin
Also known as HN, HNG (analogue)
Animal studies only
Small peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA that protects cells from stress in laboratory studies. Research is in cells and animals; human data are limited to measuring natural levels.
Not an approved medicine. Humanin is not an approved medicine for this use in Australia or the United States. This page summarises published research for information only. It is not a recommendation to use Humanin, and VialOwl does not sell or supply it.
Background
A 24 amino acid peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA, discovered in 2001 by Ikuo Nishimoto's group in Tokyo through a screen for genes that protect nerve cells from death caused by Alzheimer disease genes and amyloid.
How it is thought to work
Acts as a protective signal released by cells under stress. In laboratory studies it blocks programmed cell death caused by amyloid and other insults and helps preserve mitochondrial function; how it works in the human body is not established.
What is claimed, and the evidence
| Claim | Evidence | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Protecting nerve cells in Alzheimer disease | Animal studies only | Cell culture and mouse studies only. |
| Improving insulin sensitivity and metabolic health | Animal studies only | Animal and cell studies; human data limited to measuring natural blood levels. |
| Slowing ageing and extending lifespan | No published evidence | Based on associations between natural levels and age plus animal work; no human treatment trials. |
Side effects
| Effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| No published human safety data | Frequency unknown | Humanin has not been given to people in published clinical trials. |
Warnings
- No human trials of humanin or its analogues have been published; safety in people is unknown.
- Unapproved products bought online or from compounders may be contaminated, non sterile, underdosed, overdosed or contain a different substance; the TGA warns their labelling may be inaccurate and it has received reports of severe allergic reactions and hospitalisations.
Regulatory status
- Australia
- Not included on the ARTG (unapproved). Not specifically listed in the Poisons Standard (June 2026).
- United States
- Not FDA approved. No FDA compounding category entry found.
Sources
- PubMed: A rescue factor abolishing neuronal cell death by a wide spectrum of familial Alzheimer's disease genes and Abeta (2001)
- PubMed: Humanin and Its Pathophysiological Roles in Aging: A Systematic Review
- TGA: Understanding your responsibilities when importing, compounding and supplying unapproved peptide products (13 April 2026)
Also in Longevity
From the VialOwl library, reviewed 26 September 2026. For education and general information. It is not medical advice and not a recommendation to use Humanin.