The Hunter Williams Podcast

Humanin | The Mitochondrial Peptide for Brain Health and Longevity

Dec 16, 2025
Discover the groundbreaking peptide Humanin, a natural player in brain health and longevity! Learn how it's released during stress and plays a critical role in protecting cells. Hunter dives into its anti-apoptotic actions and neuroprotective benefits, including its potential to block amyloid-beta toxicity linked to Alzheimer's. Plus, explore its metabolic benefits like improving insulin sensitivity and heart health. Finally, get practical dosing tips for incorporating this promising peptide into your health regime!
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INSIGHT

Humanin Is A Mitochondrial Distress Signal

  • Humanin is a 24–amino-acid mitochondrial peptide that cells release as a protective distress signal during stress.
  • Levels decline with age and are highest in energy‑demand organs like brain, muscle, and heart.
ANECDOTE

Personal Drive From Family Alzheimer's Loss

  • Hunter Williams shares personal motivation: family experience with Alzheimer's drove interest in Humanin research.
  • That personal connection frames his emphasis on cognitive longevity and protective strategies.
INSIGHT

Blocks Apoptosis By Binding Pro‑Death Proteins

  • Humanin activates JAK‑STAT, ERK1/2, PI3K‑AKT survival pathways and reduces inflammation while increasing antioxidant gene expression.
  • It uniquely binds pro‑apoptotic proteins (BAX, BID, BIM) to prevent mitochondrial membrane damage and apoptosis.
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