MOTS-c
Also known as: Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c
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MOTS-c from $74/kit
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Key Facts: MOTS-c
- Category
- Hormonal
- FDA Status
- Not FDA Approved
- Clinical Status
- Preclinical - Early human studies beginning. FDA Category 2 (pending reclassification to Category 1 per April 15, 2026 HHS announcement; remains Category 2 under current law until formal FDA rule; PCAC review July 23-24, 2026)
- Administration
- Subcutaneous injection
- Typical Dose
- 5-10 mg weekly
- Frequency
- 1-3x weekly
- Duration
- Variable by protocol
Mechanism of Action
MOTS-c is encoded by mitochondrial DNA and acts as a mitokine, communicating mitochondrial status to the rest of the body. It activates AMPK, improves glucose uptake, enhances fatty acid oxidation, and has systemic metabolic regulatory effects.
Research Summary
Studies show MOTS-c improves insulin sensitivity and prevents diet-induced obesity in mice. Research demonstrates enhanced exercise capacity and protection against age-related metabolic decline. Human studies are limited but promising.
Dosing Information
Note: Animal study doses may not translate directly to humans.
Typical Dosingⓘ
Community experience
5-10 mg weekly
5-15 mg per week
1-3x weekly
Mitochondrial peptide for metabolic health. Take on exercise days. Often used 2-3x weekly.
Research Dosingⓘ
Scientific studies
Doses from research protocols
Doses from Studies
Research doses varied significantly
Duration
Variable by protocol
Administration
Subcutaneous injection
Timing & Administration
Best Time to Take
Morning or pre-workout
3-5 times per week
Food Recommendation
Take on empty stomach
Why This Timing?
MOTS-c enhances metabolic function and exercise capacity. Morning/pre-exercise timing optimizes benefits.
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these effects. Individual responses vary based on dosage, duration, and personal factors.
- ●Generally well-tolerated
- ●Injection site reactions (persistent bumps)
- ●Palpitations
- ●Nausea and bloating
- ●Fatigue
- ●May trigger histamine release - use caution with MCAS or histamine sensitivity
- ●Potential interactions with metformin
- ●Long-term effects unknown
References
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25738459/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33473109/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32182209/
Research This Peptide Further
Buy in shop
MOTS-c from $74/kit
3 verified vendors, ≥99% purity, COAs included.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does MOTS-c do?
A mitochondria-derived peptide that regulates metabolic homeostasis. Discovered in 2015, it is being studied for its effects on insulin sensitivity, exercise capacity, and aging.
How does MOTS-c work?
MOTS-c is encoded by mitochondrial DNA and acts as a mitokine, communicating mitochondrial status to the rest of the body. It activates AMPK, improves glucose uptake, enhances fatty acid oxidation, and has systemic metabolic regulatory effects.
Is MOTS-c FDA approved?
No, MOTS-c is not currently FDA approved. Current status: Preclinical - Early human studies beginning. FDA Category 2 (pending reclassification to Category 1 per April 15, 2026 HHS announcement; remains Category 2 under current law until formal FDA rule; PCAC review July 23-24, 2026)
What are the side effects of MOTS-c?
Reported side effects include: Generally well-tolerated, Injection site reactions (persistent bumps), Palpitations, Nausea and bloating, Fatigue. Individual responses vary based on dosage, duration, and personal health factors.
What is the typical dose of MOTS-c?
Community-reported common dose: 5-10 mg weekly (1-3x weekly). Range: 5-15 mg per week. Administration: Subcutaneous injection. Community-reported doses. Not medical advice. Consult healthcare provider.
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