SHLP-6
Research OnlyAlso known as: Small Humanin-Like Peptide 6, SHLP6, Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide 6
A 22-amino acid mitochondria-derived peptide with the unique property of being pro-apoptotic—the opposite of its sister peptides humanin and SHLP-2. Discovered in 2016, SHLP-6 may have applications in cancer and senescent cell clearance. Research is very early-stage with minimal published data.
Research Statistics
Emerging mitochondrial-derived peptide; similar profile to SHLP-2 with primarily US preclinical research. Mechanism as mitochondria-derived signal is plausible but lacks human trial validation.
Research Dossier
Overview
What is SHLP-6 and what does the research say?
Mechanism of Action
The proposed mechanisms of SHLP-6 are based on limited in vitro studies. The pro-apoptotic activity is observed but the molecular mechanism remains unknown.
How It Works (Simplified)
SHLP-6 is unique among mitochondria-derived peptides for promoting cell death rather than protecting cells:
Unlike humanin and other SHLPs that protect cells, SHLP-6 promotes programmed cell death through unknown mechanisms.
Increases caspase cascade activation, the enzymatic pathway responsible for executing apoptosis in cells.
May counteract humanin’s BAX inhibition and promote cytochrome c release, triggering mitochondrial apoptosis pathway.
Decreases cellular ATP levels, suggesting direct mitochondrial involvement in its cell death-promoting activity.
Scientific Pathways
Pro-Apoptotic Pathway (Proposed - Not Confirmed)
SHLP-6 → Mitochondria → Unknown Target
↓
├── May counteract humanin's BAX inhibition
├── Promote cytochrome c release
└── Activate caspase cascade → ApoptosisContrast with Cytoprotective MDPs
Humanin/SHLP-2 → Block cell death pathways → Cytoprotection
vs
SHLP-6 → Promote cell death pathways → Pro-apoptoticKey Research: Cobb LJ et al. (2016) discovered SHLP family and identified SHLP-6’s unique pro-apoptotic property. PMID:27270401
Important Limitations
- Mechanism is observed but not explained at the molecular level
- No binding partners or receptors have been identified
- No selectivity for unwanted cells (cancer, senescent) demonstrated
- Only one primary research group has published on SHLP-6
- In vivo effects and safety completely uncharacterized
- Translation to human physiology is entirely speculative
Evidence-Chained Benefits
Evidence-Chained Benefits
Research findings linked to mechanisms and clinical outcomes
What to Expect
Timeline based on observations from published studies. Individual responses may vary.
In vitro studies show SHLP-6 induces apoptosis markers within hours of exposure. Increased caspase activation and decreased cell viability observed in culture. No in vivo or human timeline data available.
Cell culture studies demonstrate continued pro-apoptotic effects with sustained exposure. ATP depletion and mitochondrial effects observed. In vivo pharmacokinetics completely unknown.
No long-term studies exist for SHLP-6. Duration of effect, accumulation, and chronic exposure outcomes are entirely uncharacterized. This represents a critical knowledge gap.
Research-Based Observations
This timeline reflects observations from published clinical and preclinical studies. Individual responses may vary significantly. This is not a guarantee of effects or a dosing schedule. Consult qualified healthcare providers for personalized guidance.
Quality Checklist
Visual indicators to help evaluate SHLP-6 product quality
Good Signs (6 indicators)
Warning Signs (4 indicators)
Bad Signs (6 indicators)
For Research Evaluation Only
These quality indicators are general guidelines based on typical peptide characteristics. Professional laboratory testing (HPLC, mass spectrometry) provides definitive quality verification. This checklist is for initial visual evaluation only.
Peptide Interactions
Known and theoretical interactions when combining SHLP-6 with other peptides. Based on published research and mechanistic considerations.
Mots-C
CompatibleMOTS-c focuses on metabolic regulation and exercise mimetic effects, different from SHLP-6's pro-apoptotic mechanism. No known interactions but both are mitochondria-derived peptides.
Foxo4-Dri
CompatibleBoth have potential senolytic applications through different mechanisms. FOXO4-DRI disrupts p53-FOXO4 interaction while SHLP-6's pro-apoptotic mechanism is unknown. Theoretical synergy for senescent cell clearance.
Humanin
AvoidSHLP-6 has opposite effects to humanin—pro-apoptotic vs anti-apoptotic. May counteract humanin's cytoprotective mechanisms. Could theoretically be used to balance humanin's effects in specific contexts.
Shlp-2
AvoidSHLP-2 is cytoprotective like humanin, while SHLP-6 promotes apoptosis. These sister peptides have opposing biological effects despite similar mitochondrial origin.
Research Note: Interaction data is based on published literature, mechanistic understanding, and theoretical considerations. Most peptide combinations lack direct clinical study. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare providers.
References
Key Studies Cited
Full reference list available on request. All citations link to PubMed for verification.
Methodology Note
This dossier synthesizes available evidence from peer-reviewed literature, regulatory documents, and clinical trial registries. Evidence strength ratings follow a modified GRADE approach.
For complete methodology details, see our Methodology page.
Important Disclaimer
This dossier is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.
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