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Last reviewed: March 2026Sources: PubMed, FDA, WADA Prohibited List

Evidence graded using the PeptideScholar A-D system

MOTS-c

CPreclinical
50
Fair Credibility
1 cited studyy · Evidence level C

Mitochondrial-derived peptide (16S rRNA-encoded) · 16 amino acids

Not FDA Approved

MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded by the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. Discovered in 2015, it is an exercise-mimetic peptide that improves insulin sensitivity, reduces obesity, and enhances metabolic homeostasis. It is one of the most studied mitochondrial peptides for metabolic disease.

Mechanism of Action

Translocates to the nucleus and binds to promoters of metabolic genes. Activates the folate-purine-AMPK pathway, improving insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake in muscle. Acts as an exercise mimetic by upregulating genes involved in glycolysis and fatty acid oxidation. Also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress.

Benefits

  • Improves insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis in animal models[1]
  • Reduces diet-induced obesity and metabolic dysfunction[1]
  • Exercise-mimetic effects on muscle metabolism
  • Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress properties
  • Human studies show circulating levels correlate with metabolic health
Not Medical Advice — Research-Reported Information Only

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

MOTS-c — Dosing in Published Research

Reported Routes: Subcutaneous injection
No established human dosing. Research studies in animals used 5-15 mg/kg/day. Human circulating levels are naturally in the nanogram/milliliter range. Exogenous dosing for research is highly experimental.

The dosing information above is sourced from published research literature and clinical trials. These are not recommendations. Individual responses vary. Always consult a healthcare provider before considering any peptide-based therapy.

Side Effects

  • Limited human safety data
  • Unknown long-term effects of exogenous administration
  • Not approved for human use

Considering Peptide Research?

MOTS-c is not FDA-approved. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before considering any peptide.

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Research & Evidence

AnimalCell Metab, 2015

The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance.

MOTS-c administration prevented diet-induced obesity, improved glucose homeostasis, and enhanced insulin sensitivity in mice via the folate-AMPK pathway

PMID: 25738459

References

  1. 1. The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance.. Cell Metab, 2015. “MOTS-c administration prevented diet-induced obesity, improved glucose homeostasis, and enhanced insulin sensitivity in mice via the folate-AMPK pathway” [PMID: 25738459]

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MOTS-c FAQ

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice based on information found on this site.

No claims of therapeutic efficacy are made for substances that are not FDA-approved for the discussed indications. Research citations reflect published findings and do not imply endorsement.

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