Humanin vs MOTS-c
Moderate Research vs Well Studied
synergistic Both are mitochondria-derived peptides with complementary longevity and metabolic benefits.
Molecular Data
Humanin MOTS-c
Weight 2,687 Da 2,174.6 Da
Half-life ~30 minutes (mice), >4 hours (rats) ~30 minutes
Chain 24 amino acids 16 amino acids
Type Mitochondria-derived peptide Mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP)
Key Benefits
Humanin
01 Potent neuroprotection against Alzheimer's and Parkinson's pathology
02 Extended lifespan in animal models (C. elegans)
03 Improved metabolic healthspan parameters
04 Reduced inflammatory markers
05 Cytoprotective effects across multiple cell types
06 Anti-apoptotic activity
07 Mitochondrial optimization and biogenesis
08 Protection against oxidative stress
MOTS-c
01 Enhanced insulin sensitivity (~30% improvement)
02 Improved glucose metabolism and tolerance
03 AMPK pathway activation
04 Mitochondrial function optimization
05 Exercise performance enhancement (12-15% improvement)
06 Potential lifespan extension (6.4% median increase in mice)
Dosing Protocols
Humanin
1-5 mg per injection (0.5-2 mg for HNG analog) / 2-3 times weekly for sustained mitochondrial support
Neuroprotection 1-5 mg 2-3x weekly
Longevity/Anti-aging 1-3 mg 2x weekly
HNG analog 0.5-2 mg 2x weekly
MOTS-c
Start 5mg daily, increase to 10-15mg based on goals / Daily for metabolic support, or 3x weekly for anti-aging
Metabolic health 5-10mg Once daily
Anti-aging protocol 15mg 3x weekly
Exercise performance 10-15mg Pre-workout
Conservative start 5mg Once daily
Side Effects
Humanin
Injection site reactions
Mild fatigue initially
Headache (rare)
MOTS-c
Generally well-tolerated in animal studies with minimal side effects
Mild injection site reactions (redness, swelling)
Contraindications
Active cancer (theoretical concern with anti-apoptotic effects)
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Hypersensitivity to peptide components
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
WADA prohibited substance (banned for athletic competition)
Limited long-term human safety data
Research Evidence
Humanin MOTS-c
Status Moderate Research Well Studied
References 4 studies 5 studies
Latest — 2025
FDA Approved No No
This comparison is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.