MOTS-c
Also known as: MOTS-c, MOTS-C
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA region that acts as a regulator of metabolism. It is studied for improving insulin sensitivity, metabolic flexibility, and exercise capacity.
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Mechanism of Action
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded by the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene that translocates to the nucleus under metabolic stress to regulate adaptive gene expression. It activates the AMPK energy-sensing pathway, enhancing glucose uptake, fatty-acid oxidation, and metabolic flexibility while reducing reliance on the folate-purine-AICAR pathway. By influencing nuclear transcription factors such as NRF2, MOTS-c modulates antioxidant and stress-response programs implicated in aging and insulin resistance. These mechanisms underlie its preclinical effects on weight, glucose homeostasis, and physical performance.
- Half-life
- Short, estimated in the range of minutes to a few hours
- Administration Routes
- subcutaneous
- Research Status
- Research Chemical
Reported Benefits
- Activates AMPK to improve metabolic flexibility in study models
- Enhances insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake
- Studied for reduced fat accumulation and weight regulation
- Investigated for increased exercise capacity and endurance
- Modulates antioxidant and stress-response pathways
- Explored as a mitochondrial-aging and longevity target
Potential Side Effects
- Injection-site irritation or redness
- Possible transient fatigue or lightheadedness
- Potential changes in blood glucose
- Unknown long-term safety in humans
- Limited human data overall
Common Dosing
For research use only and not personal medical advice: published and lab protocols commonly reference 5-10 mg per administration with frequency varied across study designs. Not approved for human use.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Uncontrolled diabetes or hypoglycemia risk without monitoring
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Known hypersensitivity to the peptide
Humanin
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MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline and muscle homeostasis
2021
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The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance
2015
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MOTS-c modulates skeletal muscle function by directly binding and activating CK2
2024
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MOTS-c: A promising mitochondrial-derived peptide for therapeutic exploitation
2023