Comparison
Humanin vs. Nafarelin
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
330936-69-1
no data
Molecular weight
2687.27 g/mol
no data
Half-life
no data
no data
Sequence
Met-Ala-Pro-Arg-Gly-Phe-Ser-Cys-Leu-Leu-Leu-Leu-Thr-Ser-Glu-Ile-Asp-Leu-Pro-Val-Lys-Arg-Arg-Alano data
Mechanism of action
Humanin
Humanin arises from a short open reading frame within the 16S rRNA region of the mitochondrial genome (MT-RNR2) — it is therefore not encoded by nuclear DNA. Mechanistically, preclinical work describes a cytoprotective, anti-apoptotic effect via multiple pathways: an extracellular interaction with a trimeric receptor complex of gp130, CNTFR and WSX-1 with downstream activation of JAK2/STAT3 signalling, as well as intracellular interactions including inhibition of the pro-apoptotic protein BAX (and of tBID), binding to IGFBP-3 with modulation of the IGF-1 axis, and interaction with FPRL1/FPRL2 receptors. These models derive predominantly from cell culture and rodents; the extent to which they reflect human physiology after administration of exogenous synthetic humanin is not established by controlled human trials.
Nafarelin
Nafarelin is a potent GnRH agonist: after an initial stimulation ('flare'), continuous receptor occupancy leads to downregulation and thereby suppression of LH, FSH and the downstream sex hormones.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human RCT
Studies
4
0
of which in humans
1
0
Effects recorded
4
2
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
0
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Humanin and Nafarelin?
- Humanin is classified as "Research other", while Nafarelin is classified as "Research other". Humanin: Humanin is a 24-amino-acid mitochondrial-encoded peptide (mitochondrial-derived peptide, MDP) whose open reading frame lies within the 16S rRNA region (gene MT-RNR2) of mitochondrial DNA. It is considered the founding member of the MDP family and was discovered in 2001 by the Hashimoto/Nishimoto group while searching for neuroprotective factors in the brain of an Alzheimer's patient. In basic research (including the laboratory of Pinchas Cohen) humanin is described as a cytoprotective, anti-apoptotic peptide and is studied in the contexts of Alzheimer's/neuroprotection, metabolism/insulin action and aging. The evidence comes almost entirely from cell and animal models and from observations of endogenous levels in humans; controlled human trials of exogenous humanin as a therapeutic are lacking. It is not approved as a medicine anywhere and is traded on the grey market as a research chemical. Nafarelin: Nafarelin is a GnRH agonist and the only member of this class delivered as a nasal spray. It is approved for treating endometriosis and central precocious puberty. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Humanin or Nafarelin?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for Humanin and "Human RCT" for Nafarelin. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Humanin and Nafarelin in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Humanin — Unapproved, Nafarelin — Prescription. United States: Humanin — Research only, Nafarelin — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.