MOTS-c

Preclinical Research

Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-C

A mitochondria-derived peptide that regulates metabolism at the cellular level. Researched for insulin sensitivity, fat regulation, exercise performance, and longevity.

SubQ injectionMetabolic HealthLongevityEnergy & Performance

Dose

5-10 mg

Route

SubQ injection

Cycle

4-8 weeks

Storage

Refrigerated (2-8°C)

What is MOTS-c?

MOTS-c is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded by a short open reading frame within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene. It is recognized for its role in regulating metabolic homeostasis, particularly through its influence on insulin sensitivity, energy metabolism, and cellular stress responses. Research indicates MOTS-c can activate the AMPK pathway, thereby promoting glucose utilization and fat metabolism. It has been investigated for its potential in addressing metabolic dysfunctions, supporting exercise performance, and contributing to longevity pathways by influencing mitochondrial function and cellular resilience.

Key Benefits

Improved insulin sensitivity
Enhanced fat burning
Exercise performance support
Anti-aging potential
AMPK activation

Mechanism of Action

Activates AMPK pathway
Regulates mitochondrial function
Targets CK2 in skeletal muscle
Promotes metabolic homeostasis

Best For

Metabolic health research
Longevity research
Exercise research

Body Systems

MetabolicMusculoskeletalCellular

🐾 Griffin Says...

MOTS-c is genuinely exciting research territory. It's made inside your own mitochondria, which makes it unique. Think of it as your cells' internal exercise signal. The AMPK activation pathway it uses is the same one triggered by exercise and caloric restriction.

Molecular Information

Molecular weight

1647.88 g/mol

Length

16 amino acids

Type

Peptide

Amino acid sequence

MTSRIQDWLPFPRPDE

Methionine, Threonine, Serine, Arginine, Isoleucine, Glutamine, Aspartic acid, Tryptophan, Leucine, Proline, Phenylalanine, Proline, Arginine, Proline, Aspartic acid, Glutamic acid

Pharmacokinetics

Time to peak

~30 minutes after subcutaneous injection

Half-life

1.5 h

Time to clear

Largely cleared within 8-12 hours

DoseEstimated plasma concentration9 h

Lee C. et al., Cell Metabolism (2015) — MOTS-c pharmacology and AMPK activation

Research Indications

Insulin Sensitivity
Widely researched for improving insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, often by activating the AMPK pathway.
Fat Metabolism
Studies indicate a role in regulating fat metabolism, promoting fat burning, and potentially reducing fat accumulation.
Metabolic Homeostasis
Contributes to overall metabolic balance, potentially ameliorating aspects of metabolic dysfunction.

Research Protocols

Goal	Dose	Frequency	Route
General Metabolic Support and Insulin Sensitivity	5 mg	2 times per week	Subcutaneous injection
Enhanced Exercise Performance and Fat Metabolism	5-10 mg	2-3 times per week	Subcutaneous injection
Intensive Metabolic Regulation (Short-term)	10 mg	3 times per week	Subcutaneous injection
Longevity and Anti-aging Research	5 mg	1-2 times per week	Subcutaneous injection

Research protocols often involve consistent administration on non-consecutive days throughout the cycle.

Peptide Interactions

Metformin
Both MOTS-c and Metformin influence AMPK activation and glucose metabolism. While potentially synergistic, their combined effects on blood glucose should be closely monitored in research subjects to avoid hypoglycemia.
Monitor Combination
Insulin
MOTS-c improves insulin sensitivity. Co-administration with exogenous insulin could lead to an increased risk of hypoglycemia and requires careful dose adjustment and monitoring.
Use Caution
Thyroid Hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)
No direct contraindications or known adverse interactions are commonly discussed in research; however, systemic metabolic changes could theoretically influence thyroid hormone efficacy, requiring monitoring.
Compatible
Other Peptides (e.g., Growth Hormone Releasing Peptides)
While no direct interactions are well-established, combining multiple peptides could lead to complex physiological responses that should be carefully observed in research settings. Focus on one mechanism at a time for clearer research outcomes.
Monitor Combination
Steroids (Anabolic/Androgenic)
Anabolic steroids can affect glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Combining with MOTS-c might lead to unpredictable or amplified metabolic effects, necessitating close monitoring.
Monitor Combination

How to Reconstitute

1Gather supplies: MOTS-c vial, bacteriostatic water for injection, sterile syringe (e.g., 1mL with 29-31 gauge needle), alcohol wipes.
2Inspect the MOTS-c vial to ensure the lyophilized powder is intact and free from damage.
3Clean the rubber stopper of both the MOTS-c vial and the bacteriostatic water vial with alcohol wipes.
4Draw the desired amount of bacteriostatic water (commonly 1-2mL per 5mg vial, or as specified by product instructions) into the syringe.
5Slowly inject the bacteriostatic water into the MOTS-c vial, aiming the stream against the inside wall of the vial to prevent direct impact on the peptide powder.
6Gently swirl the vial (do not shake vigorously) until the powder is fully dissolved. This may take a few minutes. The solution should be clear and free of particulate matter.

Sterile bacteriostatic water is commonly used for reconstitution in research contexts. Proper aseptic technique is crucial.

What to Expect

Weeks 1-2: Initial subtle metabolic shifts or improved energy levels may be reported in some research subjects. No dramatic changes are typically observed.
Weeks 3-4: Research suggests potential improvements in insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism may become more noticeable. Some reports indicate enhanced workout performance.
Weeks 5-8: More pronounced effects on fat metabolism and body composition may be observed, alongside sustained improvements in energy and endurance. Studies on metabolic markers may show significant changes.
Post-cycle: Benefits are generally maintained for a period after cessation, but without continued administration, effects may gradually diminish.

Side Effects & Safety

Effect	Frequency	Severity
Minimal reported	Rare	Mild

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Peptides discussed here are for research purposes only. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making health decisions.