Peptide Database

HN · mitochondria-derived peptide humanin

Humanin is a 21-amino-acid mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the 16S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA. It is cytoprotective against Alzheimer's-related neuronal death, reduces oxidative stress, improves insulin sensitivity, and suppresses apoptosis through multiple pathways (STAT3, IGFBP-3, FPRL1). Circulating humanin levels decline with age, linking it to age-related diseases.

Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA Type-C

MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondria-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA gene. It regulates AMPK signaling, enhances insulin sensitivity, promotes muscle glucose uptake independently of insulin, and improves exercise capacity. Animal studies show it extends lifespan and protects against diet-induced obesity and age-related metabolic dysfunction. It translocates to the nucleus under stress to regulate adaptive gene expression.

Small Humanin-Like Peptide 2

SHLP2 is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded in the 16S rRNA region of the mitochondrial genome, from the same region as humanin. It promotes mitochondrial biogenesis, reduces reactive oxygen species, and inhibits apoptosis in multiple cell types. Research shows it protects against age-related macular degeneration, reduces atherosclerosis risk, and is inversely correlated with type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's disease. Circulating SHLP2 declines with age.

Elamipretide · Szeto-Schiller 31

SS-31 (elamipretide) is a tetrapeptide that selectively targets cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing cristae architecture and enhancing ATP synthesis efficiency. It reduces mitochondrial ROS production and protects against ischemia-reperfusion injury, heart failure, and aging-related mitochondrial dysfunction. Phase 2 trials have been conducted for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and Barth syndrome.