Advances in characterization of neuroprotective peptide, humanin.

Humanin (HN), a short amino acid peptide, protects neurons as well as other cells from amyloid β-induced toxicities and other stresses. A number of HN binding proteins have been identified and their involvements in HN-mediated neuroprotection have been suggested in some cases. However, the way HN binds to the target molecules has never been clarified. Here we will review the structures of HN and HN analogs in solution as a function of solvent conditions and attempt to relate their structural characteristics to the functional properties.