FGL vs Humanin
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
FGL
FGL (FG Loop) is a synthetic peptide that mimics the neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) FG loop region. It promotes neuroplasticity and has shown cognitive-enhancing effects in research.
Full details →Humanin
Humanin is a mitochondrial-derived peptide with potent cytoprotective effects. Discovered in 2001, it has shown promise in protecting against age-related diseases including Alzheimer's, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | FGL | Humanin |
|---|---|---|
| Dose Range | 500 mcg–1 mg | 100 mcg–500 mcg |
| Frequency | 1x daily | 1x daily |
| Cycle Length | 4–8 weeks | 4–8 weeks |
| Route | intranasal | subcutaneous |
| Mechanism | Binds to FGFR1 (fibroblast growth factor receptor 1) to activate downstream signaling cascades that promote neurite outgrowth, synaptic plasticity, and neuronal survival. | Binds to IGFBP-3 and BAX, inhibiting apoptosis. Activates STAT3 signaling and enhances cellular survival under stress. Protects mitochondrial function and reduces oxidative stress. |
| Typical Dosage | Research protocols have used subcutaneous doses ranging from 1-10mg. Intranasal administration also studied. Optimal dosing not established. | Research protocols vary widely. Studies have used doses from micrograms to milligrams depending on the analog and route. HNG (S14G-Humanin) is a more potent analog. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection or intranasal administration. Research compound with limited human dosing data. | Subcutaneous or intraperitoneal injection in research. Various analogs exist with different potencies and stabilities. |
| Side Effects | Limited human data available. Animal studies show good tolerability. | Limited human data. Generally well-tolerated in animal studies. May affect glucose metabolism. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
FGL, Humanin are both commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to Humanin:
Which Has Stronger Evidence?
| Goal | FGL | Humanin |
|---|---|---|
| Cognitive Performance | medium | medium |
Key Studies
Humanin
- Humanin Mitigates Aβ-Induced Retinal Pigment Epithelium Injury via AMPK-Beclin1-Dependent Mitophagy.
Aging cell, 2026
- HUMANIN produced by human efferocytic macrophages promotes the resolution of inflammation.
Cell death & disease, 2025
- The neuroprotective role of Humanin in Alzheimer's disease: The molecular effects.
European journal of pharmacology, 2025
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