Mitochondria · Jun 12, 2024
Humanin: The Survival Peptide Encoded in Mitochondrial DNA
Summary
Humanin is a 24-amino-acid peptide encoded in the mitochondrial genome, originally discovered for protecting neurons from amyloid-β toxicity.
Why It Matters
Humanin is one of the first 'mitochondrial-derived peptides' ever characterized. Its discovery opened the field that now includes MOTS-c and the SHLPs.
Key Findings
- Originally identified in Alzheimer's brain tissue research.
- Anti-apoptotic and metabolic signaling activity reported across cell types.
- Plasma levels decline with age in humans.