MOTS-c
MOTS-c is a 16-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by the mitochondrial genome.
Also known as: Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c
Overview
MOTS-c is a 16-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by the mitochondrial genome. It acts as a mitohormone that regulates metabolic homeostasis, enhances insulin sensitivity, and promotes longevity. MOTS-c operates through the Folate-AICAR-AMPK pathway and can translocate to the nucleus under metabolic stress to regulate gene expression.
Key Benefits
- Insulin Resistance
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Obesity Prevention
Enhanced insulin sensitivity, improved glucose metabolism, activation of AMPK pathway, mitochondrial function optimization, exercise performance enhancement, and potential longevity benefits.
Mechanism of Action
MOTS-c operates through the Folate-AICAR-AMPK pathway, inhibiting the folate cycle and leading to AMPK activation. Under metabolic stress, it translocates to the nucleus and binds to stress-response transcription factors (NRF2, ATF1/ATF7) to regulate gene expression involved in metabolism, antioxidant response, and cellular stress adaptation.
Pharmacokinetics
Peak plasma concentration: 1 hr. Elimination half-life: 4 hrs. Largely cleared by: ~20 hrs.
Research Protocols Injectable
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metabolic health | 5-10mg | Once daily | Subcutaneous |
| Anti-aging protocol | 15mg | 3x weekly | Subcutaneous |
| Exercise performance | 10-15mg | Pre-workout | Subcutaneous |
| Conservative start | 5mg | Once daily | Subcutaneous |
| Low-dose stack protocol | 1mg | 3x weekly | Subcutaneous |
Research protocols from published literature — not dosing recommendations.
Peptide Interactions
- Metformin — Use Caution: Both activate AMPK pathway - may cause additive hypoglycemic effects. Monitor blood glucose closely.
- NAD+ Precursors — Synergistic: Complementary mitochondrial enhancement through different pathways. May amplify metabolic and anti-aging benefits.
- Growth Hormone Peptides — Compatible: Different mechanisms allow safe combination with potential synergistic metabolic benefits.
- Berberine — Monitor Combination: Both are AMPK activators with potential for additive glucose-lowering effects.
- Resveratrol — Synergistic: Complementary SIRT1/AMPK activation may enhance longevity and metabolic benefits.
- Diabetes Medications — Use Caution: Enhanced insulin sensitivity may require dose adjustments to prevent hypoglycemia.
Peptide Instructions Injectable
Supplies:
- Lyophilized MOTS-c peptide vial
- Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
- Insulin syringes (0.5-1mL)
- Alcohol swabs
- Sterile work surface
How to Reconstitute Injectable
- 1Allow vial to reach room temperature (15-20 minutes)
- 2Calculate required BAC water volume using calculator below
- 3Draw BAC water into syringe
- 4Inject slowly down vial side (not directly onto powder)
- 5Gently swirl until dissolved (never shake vigorously)
- 6Store reconstituted solution at 2-8°C and use within 14 days
What to Expect Injectable
Week 1-2: AMPK pathway activation, initial glucose tolerance improvements. Week 2-4: Enhanced exercise capacity, improved insulin sensitivity. Week 4-8: Sustained metabolic benefits, potential body composition improvements. Week 8-12: Maximum mitochondrial function enhancement, metabolic flexibility. Side effects: Generally mild, possible injection site reactions.
Side Effects & Safety
Generally well-tolerated in animal studies with minimal side effects. Monitor blood glucose if using diabetes medications - may require dose adjustments. Limited long-term human safety data - use with appropriate medical supervision. May cause mild injection site reactions (redness, swelling). Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Prohibited by WADA for competitive athletes (metabolic modulator).
Generally well-tolerated in animal studies with minimal side effects. Monitor blood glucose if using diabetes medications - may require dose adjustments. Limited long-term human safety data - use with appropriate medical supervision. May cause mild injection site reactions (redness, swelling). Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Prohibited by WADA for competitive athletes (metabolic modulator).
Community Insights
MOTS-c should be stored at Lyophilized: room temp 3 weeks or freezer. Reconstituted: 2-8°C for 14 days.
Molecular Information
References
- Exploring the therapeutic potential of MOTS-c in age-related macular degeneration: from cellular responses to patient-derived cybrids
- MOTS-c is an effective target for treating cancer-induced bone pain through the induction of AMPK-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis
- Mitochondria-derived peptide MOTS-c: effects and mechanisms related to stress, metabolism and aging
- MOTS-c Serum Concentration Positively Correlates with Lower-Body Muscle Strength and Is Not Related to Maximal Oxygen Uptake
- MOTS-c increases in skeletal muscle following long-term physical activity and improves acute exercise performance after a single dose
- The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c relieves hyperglycemia and insulin resistance in gestational diabetes mellitus
- MOTS-c, the Most Recent Mitochondrial Derived Peptide in Human Aging and Age-Related Diseases
- MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline and muscle homeostasis
- The mitochondrial-encoded peptide MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus to regulate nuclear gene expression in response to metabolic stress
- Downregulation of circulating MOTS-c levels in patients with coronary endothelial dysfunction
- The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance
Research reference only. Not medical advice.