Humanin vs IGF-1 DES
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- Humanin is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded in the 16S rRNA region of the mitochondrial genome. It protects neurons and other cells from apoptosis, improves insulin sensitivity, and declines significantly with age. HNG (S14G-Humanin) is a synthetic analog with 1000x greater potency.
- IGF-1 DES (also written DES(1-3)IGF-1) is a truncated form of IGF-1 missing the first three amino acids of the N-terminus. This structural change dramatically reduces its affinity for IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs), meaning a far greater fraction remains in its free, active form. IGF-1 DES is estimated to be 10x more potent than standard IGF-1 LR3 at the receptor level locally, making it particularly effective for site-specific muscle growth when injected intramuscularly.
- Half-Life
- ~4–8 hours (HNG)
- ~20–30 minutes (very short — designed for local action)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- IM, SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 2–8 mg
- 20–50 mcg per injection site
- Frequency
- 3–5 times per week
- Once daily, post-workout
- Key Benefits
- Neuroprotection against amyloid-beta toxicity (Alzheimer's relevance)
- Inhibits cellular apoptosis
- Improves insulin sensitivity
- Reduces cardiovascular risk markers
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Correlates with longevity in centenarian studies
- Protects against ischemic injury
- Potential cancer cell apoptosis sensitization
- Estimated 10x greater potency at the receptor vs IGF-1 LR3 locally
- Minimal IGFBP binding — nearly all active upon injection
- Highly localized muscle growth effect when injected intramuscularly
- Activates satellite cells for muscle fiber hyperplasia potential
- Synergistic with GH peptides in post-workout anabolic protocols
- Shorter half-life reduces systemic exposure vs IGF-1 LR3
- Useful for site-specific muscle development
- Side Effects
- Injection site irritation
- Limited human safety data available
- Hypoglycemia (most significant risk — especially post-workout)
- Localized muscle swelling at injection site
- Potential for jaw/organ growth (acromegalic effects) with prolonged high-dose use
- Carpal tunnel syndrome with high doses
- +1 more
- Stacks With
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