Potential Roles of Humanin on Apoptosis in the Heart

The process of programmed cell death, or apoptosis, is known as a key player in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease. The proposed mechanism for apoptosis is the activation of two main apoptotic signaling pathways (the extrinsic and intrinsic pathways), which lead to cell death. As the rate and amount of cardiomyocyte loss is the most important determinant of patient morbidity and mortality, novel treatment strategies targeting apoptosis are crucial. Recently, Humanin has been shown to exert protective effects against cellular apoptosis in both experimental and clinical studies. The potential cardioprotective mechanisms of Humanin have been shown to involve both the extracellular and intracellular signaling pathways. In this review, the current knowledge and the mechanisms inhibiting cellular apoptosis by Humanin during cardiac injury are comprehensively summarized. In addition, both research and clinical findings regarding the effects of Humanin on the heart and vasculature are also presented and discussed. Currently available information suggests that Humanin may exert cardioprotective benefits and could potentially be used as a novel pharmacological intervention against cellular apoptosis during myocardial injury.