MOTS-c
Aliases: Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c
Last verified: 2026-09-23
The short version
MOTS-c is the star of 'mitochondrial peptides': discovered in 2015, encoded by the mitochondrion's own DNA, with animal data linking it to physical activity, insulin sensitivity and obesity. In humans, links to insulin resistance and fitness are described in observational studies, and early-phase trials are beginning to appear. Yet: no approvals, no phase III, and all 'longevity' narratives are speculative extrapolations.
Identity & type
- Molecular type
- peptide
- Sequence / structure
- 16 aa (mitohondrijski open reading frame)
- Molecular weight
- ~2175 Da
- Origin
- Peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA (12S rRNA region), a 'mitochondrial peptide' involved in metabolism.
Mechanism of action
Translocates to the nucleus under metabolic stress, activates AMPK, regulates nuclear gene expression for energy homeostasis.
Dosing & routes
Official / clinical context
No approved official document exists for MOTS-c. Any protocols mentioned are to be read as information, not as a recommendation.
Regulator-approved labeling and published study designs — never a recommendation.
Community-reported practice
Experimental: 5–10 mg SC 1–3× weekly or 10 mg pre-workout. The community reports better endurance and "cleaner" workout energy with less fatigue; some describe a mild recomp effect over 4–8 weeks.
Unverified self-reports. Not medical advice. Not endorsement.
Expected effects (community)
The community reports better endurance and "cleaner" workout energy with less fatigue; some describe a mild recomp effect over 4–8 weeks.
Protocol — official vs community
Official / label
No approved product. Clinical research: 5–10 mg SC weekly (mitochondrial function and exercise-capacity studies).
- 01Flat weekly dosing in trials
Duration: Trial-defined, weeks to months.
Mitochondrial-derived peptide; the exercise-mimetic story is the best-developed part of its preclinical case.
Community (anecdotal)
5–10 mg SC weekly, often Monday-morning style pinning for 'workout fueling'.
- Cycle:
- 8–10 weeks.
- Break:
- 4 weeks off.
Frequently stacked with SS-31 — the two cover different mitochondrial mechanisms in theory.
Human evidence
Observational links between MOTS-c levels and metabolic health; early interventional trials are underway.
Preclinical evidence
Preclinical literature preceded the clinical trials; details vary by compound.
Known risks
- Short research history; safety insufficiently characterizedcharacterized
- Theoretical risks of chronic metabolic manipulationtheoretical
Teal: characterized in clinical/labeling contexts. Amber: theoretical or reported outside controlled settings.
Unknowns & evidence gaps
- Pharmacokinetics and optimal dose
- Long-term effects
Frequently asked questions
References
- Lee C. et al., MOTS-c discovery (Cell Metab, 2015)