Humanin

Key points

• Humanin is a mitochondrial derived peptide, one of a small family that includes MOTS-c.
• It is studied for protecting cells, with interest in ageing, metabolism and the brain.
• Almost all the evidence is from cells and animals, not human trials.
• It is not a licensed medicine in the UK and is sold only for research use.

Quick facts

What it is

Mitochondrial derived peptide

Studied for

Cell protection, ageing and the brain

UK status

Not a licensed medicine; sold for research use

Human evidence

None; animal and cell studies only

How it works

Humanin is encoded in mitochondrial DNA and appears to act as a protective signal, helping cells survive stress. In laboratory and animal work it has been linked to protecting nerve cells and to effects on metabolism. Levels are reported to fall with age, which is part of the ageing interest. How this applies to people is not established.

What the evidence shows

The evidence is preclinical, from cells and animals, suggesting protective effects. There are no completed human trials, no established dose, and no clear safety picture in people.

What it does not settle

• There are no human trials of benefit or safety.
• There is no established human dose.
• How it behaves when given, rather than made naturally, is unknown.

Side effects

Less common but serious

• Human safety is unstudied, so the risks are not known.
• Because there is no licensed product, the dose, purity and contents of material bought online cannot be verified.

Report any suspected side effect through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

UK legal status and access

Humanin has no UK marketing authorisation, so it is not a licensed medicine and is not offered by registered clinics or pharmacies. It is sold online as a research chemical.

Common questions