MOTS-c

EXTENSIVELY STUDIED

Mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c

Typical dose
5-15 mg
Once a day or 3x/week
Route
Injectable
Subcutaneous: abdomen, thigh or arm (rotate)
Cycle
4-12 weeks
Typical duration
Storage
2-8 °C
Refrigerated

Overview

What is MOTS-c?

MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondria-derived peptide encoded by the mitochondrial genome. It acts as a mitohormone that regulates metabolic homeostasis, improves insulin sensitivity and promotes longevity. It works through the folate-AICAR-AMPK pathway.

Key benefits

Greater insulin sensitivity, better glucose metabolism, AMPK pathway activation, mitochondrial function optimization, improved physical performance and possible longevity benefits.

Mechanism of action

MOTS-c works through the folate-AICAR-AMPK pathway, inhibiting the folate cycle and activating AMPK. Under metabolic stress, it moves to the nucleus and binds stress-response transcription factors to regulate genes involved in metabolism, antioxidant response and cellular stress adaptation.

Quick start guide

Typical dose
5-15 mg
How often
Once a day or 3 times a week, preferably in the morning
Where to inject
Subcutaneous: abdomen, thigh or arm (rotate sites)
Injection timing
In the morning before exercise or with the first meal
Effects timeline
AMPK activation within 30 minutes; glucose improvements in 1-2 weeks; full benefits in 4-8 weeks
Storage
Lyophilized: room temperature 3 weeks or freezer. Reconstituted: 2-8 °C for 14 days
Cycle length
4-12 weeks continuous or 3 times a week intermittently
Break between
2-4 weeks between continuous cycles

What to expect

Side effects & safety

Frequently asked questions

What is MOTS-c?

MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondria-derived peptide that acts as a metabolism-regulating mitohormone.

What is MOTS-c researched for?

It is studied for metabolism and glucose, insulin sensitivity, physical performance and longevity.

How does MOTS-c work?

It works through the folate-AICAR-AMPK pathway and, under metabolic stress, regulates genes related to metabolism and antioxidant response.

How long does MOTS-c take to work?

AMPK activation occurs within minutes; glucose improvements are described in 1-2 weeks and full benefits in 4-8 weeks.

What is the usual MOTS-c dose?

Most commonly 5-15 mg, daily or 3 times a week. The schedule should be assessed by a professional.

How is MOTS-c administered?

Subcutaneously (abdomen, thigh or arm), preferably in the morning or before exercise.

How is MOTS-c stored?

The lyophilized powder at room temperature or freezer and, reconstituted, refrigerated. See the storage guide.

What are the side effects of MOTS-c?

It is described as well tolerated in animal studies; long-term human safety data are limited.

Which peptides is MOTS-c combined with?

It is usually paired with peptides aimed at metabolism or longevity, depending on the goal.

Is MOTS-c approved?

It is not approved and is banned by WADA as a metabolic modulator.

What is the difference between MOTS-c and GLP-1 peptides?

MOTS-c acts on the mitochondria and the AMPK pathway, not on appetite like GLP-1 agonists.

Research areas

Related peptides

Related articles

Related topics

Summary

What it is: 16-amino-acid mitochondrial peptide (mitohormone).

How it is researched: 5-15 mg, daily or 3 times a week, subcutaneous.

Key features: Acts through the AMPK pathway; associated with metabolism and longevity. Not approved and banned by WADA.

Related peptides: Epitalon, AOD-9604 and Semaglutide.