Back to libraryMetabolic

MOTS-c

Research profile · How we handle evidence

MOTS-c is a mitochondria-encoded peptide studied for metabolic signaling. Researchers have looked at it as an "exercise-mimetic" candidate, especially in how cells handle glucose and respond to metabolic stress. The evidence base is mostly preclinical, with limited human data.

Evidence Score

45/100

Preclinical signal

Category

Metabolic

Therapeutic area

Standard Dose

5-15mg

Once daily or 3x weekly

Half-life

~5 hr

Plasma elimination

Route

SC

Subcutaneous

Safety Tier

3

Limited data

Overview

MOTS-c is tied to energy-sensing pathways in preclinical studies (including AMPK). The idea is that it may shift how the body uses glucose and fuels tissues under stress. Human evidence is limited, so it’s best treated as an experimental research compound—not a replacement for exercise, sleep, or standard care.

Mechanism of Action

MOTS-c is tied to energy-sensing pathways in preclinical studies (including AMPK). The idea is that it may shift how the body uses glucose and fuels tissues under stress. Human evidence is limited, so it’s best treated as an experimental research compound—not a replacement for exercise, sleep, or standard care.

Mitochondrial Derived Peptide That Translocates To The Nucleus To Regulate Metabolic Gene ExpressionActivates AMPK Pathway To Enhance Glucose Uptake And Fatty Acid OxidationIncreases NAD+ Levels And SIRT1 Activity For Improved Mitochondrial BiogenesisReduces Insulin Resistance By Enhancing GLUT4 Translocation To Cell Membrane

pH & Mixing

10.6

Peptides reconstituted at very different pH levels can destabilize when combined in the same syringe, which lowers how much of the peptide your body actually absorbs. If you're unsure whether two peptides are close enough in pH, reconstitute and inject them separately.

A dedicated compatibility check between two specific peptides is coming to the Compare tool. This section covers this peptide's pH only.

Benefits

  • Better insulin sensitivity
  • Enhanced exercise performance
  • Improves metabolism
  • Potential longevity benefits
  • Protects against metabolic stress

Side Effects

  • Human safety data is limited
  • Some users report mild fatigue or transient GI discomfort
  • Injection/administration-related irritation is possible
  • Stop use and seek medical help for rash, persistent symptoms, or any allergic-type reaction

Contraindications

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • Individuals under 18 years old
  • Those with known allergies to peptide components

Structure & Sequence

View 3D structure

Verified structure

MOTS-c

Sequence illustration backed by PubChem match.

Verified via PubChemMatched by name
C101H152N28O22S22,174.6 DaCAS 2849-05-416 residues
Source: PubChemLookup: MOTS-cInChIKey WYTHCOXVWRKRAH-LOKRTKBUSA-N
Amino Acid Sequence
MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR (16aa)
Molecular Weight
2,174.6 Da
Chemical Formula
C101H152N28O22S2
CAS Number
2849-05-4
Reconstituted pH
10.6
InChIKey
WYTHCOXVWRKRAH-LOKRTKBUSA-N

Stack & Route Context

Stacks with

  • Epitalon
  • SS-31

Administration

Subcutaneous

Research Status

Emerging, mostly preclinical research. Human evidence is sparse and not yet enough to support strong clinical expectations.

Approval Status

Preclinical

Sports Legal

Permitted

References

  1. 1

    MOTS-c improves physical performance in aged mice

    2023

    View source
  2. 2

    MOTS-c: a mitochondrial-encoded regulator of metabolic homeostasis

    2021

    View source

This profile summarizes research literature for education only. It is not medical advice, and it does not diagnose, treat, or recommend a dose. Consult a qualified professional before changing a protocol.

Research-driven insights.Evidence-based decisions.