MOTS-c
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide / Metabolic RegulatorAlso known as: Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide MOTS-c
A 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA that activates AMPK, improves insulin sensitivity, & shows dramatic lifespan extension in mouse models.
Typical Dose
5–10 mg, 3–5x per week
Route
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle
8–16 weeks
Half-life
Unknown in humans; hours (estimated)
Storage
Lyophilized: 2–8°C. Reconstituted: 2–8°C, use within 30 days.
Overview
MOTS-c is a peptide encoded by a small open reading frame within the 12S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA — one of only a handful of peptides encoded by the mitochondrial genome. It acts as a metabolic hormone, circulating from muscle mitochondria to the nucleus & other organs where it activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), the primary cellular energy sensor.
AMPK activation drives: increased glucose uptake in muscle, fatty acid oxidation, mitochondrial biogenesis, & inhibition of anabolic pathways. In mouse models, MOTS-c injection prevented diet-induced obesity, reversed insulin resistance, & significantly extended lifespan. Plasma MOTS-c levels decline with age in humans, suggesting it may contribute to age-related metabolic decline.
MOTS-c levels in humans peak with exercise & decline with aging. Exogenous MOTS-c administration mimics the metabolic effects of exercise on skeletal muscle mitochondria.
Quick Start Guide
Reconstitute with 1 mL BAC water per 5 mg vial.
Inject 5–10 mg subcutaneously 3–5x per week.
Research Indications
Insulin sensitivity / metabolic health
Most EffectiveAMPK activation drives glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation, & reversal of insulin resistance in animal models. Mimics exercise-induced metabolic signaling.
Anti-aging / longevity
ModerateLifespan extension in mouse models. Declines with human aging, suggesting supplementation may counter age-related metabolic decline. No human longevity data yet.
Exercise performance
ModeratePromotes the molecular adaptations of aerobic exercise in skeletal muscle mitochondria. May be useful for those unable to exercise or seeking enhanced adaptation.
Research Protocols
Metabolic health & longevity
8–16 weeksDose
5–10 mg
Frequency
3–5x per week SubQ
Route
SubQ abdomen
Peptide Interactions
Side Effects & Safety
Common
- Injection site redness
- Hypoglycemia risk (AMPK activation increases glucose uptake; monitor in diabetics or during fasting)
Uncommon
- Headache
- Fatigue (AMPK pathway shifts away from anabolism)
When to Stop
- Signs of allergic reaction
- Diabetics: monitor blood glucose carefully
How to Reconstitute
Wipe stopper. Add 1 mL BAC water. Swirl gently. Refrigerate.
Dosing math: 1 mL BAC water per 5 mg = 5000 mcg/mL. For 5 mg: 1.0 mL. For 10 mg: use 2 vials or 0.5 mL BAC water per 5 mg vial = 10000 mcg/mL.
Quality Indicators
Good — use as normal
- Clear, colorless solution
Acceptable
- Very faint tint
Discard immediately
- Cloudiness
- Particulate
What to Expect
Week 1–2
AMPK activation begins immediately. Blood glucose improvements may be measurable.
Week 3–8
Metabolic adaptations accumulating. Body composition improvements (fat loss, improved insulin sensitivity) more apparent.
Community Insights
Self-reported. Reflects user experience, not clinical outcomes.
Research References
MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline & muscle homeostasis
Nature Communications · 2021
Demonstrates exercise-induced MOTS-c secretion, age-related decline in MOTS-c levels, & reversal of age-related physical decline with exogenous MOTS-c treatment.
Verify what you have
Information on this page applies to pharmaceutical-grade peptides. Purity & identity of research-grade products vary. Certipep provides independent ESI-TOF-MS & HPLC analysis with a signed analytical report.
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