Background: Humanin (HN) is an endogenous peptide factor and known as a member of mitochondrial-derived peptides. We first found the gene encoding this novel 24-residue peptide in a brain of an Alzheimer's disease (AD) patient as an antagonizing factor against neuronal cell death induced by AD-associated insults.
Scope of review: This review presents an overview of HN actions in AD-related conditions among its wide range of action spectrum as well as a brief history of the discovery.
Major conclusions: HN exhibits multiple intracellular and extracellular anti-cell death actions and antagonizes various AD-associated pathomechanisms including amyloid plaque accumulation.
General significance: This review concisely reflects accumulated knowledge on HN since the discovery focusing on its functions related to AD pathogenesis and provides a perspective to its potential contribution in AD treatments.
Keywords: Alzheimer's disease; Amyloid β; Humanin; Mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP); Neuroprotection; Peptide.
Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.