18+ • For Research & Educational Purposes Only • Not Medical Advice  Disclaimer
Peptide Wiki
LongevityPreclinical

MOTS-c

Mitochondrial-derived peptide that regulates metabolic homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, and exercise adaptation

Research Reality Check

Not Enough Evidence YetInteresting idea, but proof is still thin.
ClaimSome people claim MOTS-c has clear value for longevity research.
RealityMost support is early or indirect, so human results are not settled.
Bottom LineUse the evidence score, sources, and safety notes before taking any claim seriously.
Why People Believe ThisSimple explanations and user stories can sound more certain than the research is.
Watch Out For
Guaranteed resultsExact protocols presented as provenAnecdotes used as proof
112Discussions
2Citations

Evidence Dossier

76Evidence

Preclinical

Evidence score reflects source depth, citations, and research maturity. It is not a medical recommendation.

2Citations
112Discussions
Start Here

MOTS-c at a glance

A fast read for beginners, with evidence strength, route context, safety depth, and community activity surfaced before the deeper sections.

Evidence score76Preclinical
Primary routeSubcutaneous InjectionRoute availability varies by context
Safety depthExperimentalReview safety notes before making assumptions
Community questions112Related discussions and experiences

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome, discovered by Changhan David Lee's lab at USC in 2015. It is one of a new class of "mitochondrial-derived peptides" (MDPs) - signaling molecules produced by mitochondria that communicate with the nucleus and other organs.

How It Works

MOTS-c acts as a metabolic regulator by activating AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), the master sensor of cellular energy status. In doing so, it improves insulin sensitivity, promotes glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, and reduces fat accumulation. It also activates the folate cycle-methionine metabolism pathway.

Notably, MOTS-c levels in blood decline significantly with age - and can be increased by exercise - suggesting it may partially mediate the metabolic benefits of physical activity. Supplemental MOTS-c has shown anti-obesity effects, improved glucose tolerance, and extended lifespan in animal models. Human research is in its early stages but highly promising.

Key Benefits

✓
Improved insulin sensitivity
✓
Metabolic homeostasis regulation
✓
Enhanced exercise performance and adaptation
✓
Fat loss via AMPK activation
✓
Longevity signaling

Saves this peptide to your Watchlist and helps you find new research, news, and questions later.

Quick Dosing Reference
Dose Range500-1500mcg
FrequencyOnce weekly
RouteSubQ injection
Experience LevelBeginner