The Role of Humanin, a Mitochondrial Peptide, in Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases

Introduction: Vascular disorders, particularly in vital organs such as the heart and brain, are the most important reasons of disability and mortality worldwide.Extensive studies have been devoted to investigating causes of vascular disease and prevention and treatment strategies due to the high prevalence and burden on health services of the countries.In this review, the role of humanin was assessed in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Materials and Methods:This study involved searching international databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus for the keywords of humanin, peptide-derived mitochondria, cardiovascular, stroke, cerebrovascular, and atherosclerosis, either individually or in combination, up to the end of 2023.Results: Mitochondria produce peptides that regulate mitochondrial and cell function.These peptides are released into the blood and regulate the function of other cells by binding to their receptors.Humanin, a mitochondrial-derived peptide, improves mitochondrial and cell function through its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties.Humanin preserves the structure and function of endothelial cells and prevents the progression of atherosclerosis by alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation.Humanin also improves the function of neurons and reduces the damage caused by stroke by maintaining the integrity of endothelial cells of the vessel walls. Conclusion:Humanin regulates the function of blood vessels and its reduction is related to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.Humanin can be suggested as a potential therapeutic target for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.Further research is needed to explore its clinical applications.