Research compounds
MOTS-c
Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA Type-C
A mitochondrial-derived peptide discovered in 2015 that acts as an exercise mimetic. Signals between mitochondria and the cell nucleus to regulate metabolism.
Also known as: MOTSc, Mitochondrial ORF
- Status
- MOTS-c is a research compound and not approved by the FDA for human use.
- Evidence
- Early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far.
- Half-life
- Under investigation
- How it's taken
- Subcutaneous injection (research settings)
- Mechanism
- Mitochondrial / longevity
- Pathways
- Mitochondrial
How MOTS-c works
Released by mitochondria during metabolic stress, MOTS-c travels to the cell nucleus and activates AMPK pathways — the same pathways activated during exercise. This improves glucose uptake and fat metabolism.
What research has looked at
- Exercise-mimicking metabolic effects
- Improved insulin sensitivity
- Enhanced fat metabolism
- May prevent age-related metabolic decline
- Supports mitochondrial function
Evidence level: Early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far. These are areas studied or reported, not promised effects.
Reported side effects and risks
- Very limited human data
- Injection site reactions reported
- Potential blood sugar changes
- Research is still in early stages
- Not available for clinical use
Sources
- PubMed research on MOTS-c mitochondrial derived peptide metabolism · NIH · National Library of Medicine
- StatPearls / NCBI Bookshelf on MOTS-c · NCBI Bookshelf
- DrugBank record for MOTS-c · DrugBank
Track MOTS-c in Peptide Vault
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Related compounds
MOTS-c FAQ
What is MOTS-c?
A mitochondrial-derived peptide discovered in 2015 that acts as an exercise mimetic. Signals between mitochondria and the cell nucleus to regulate metabolism.
How does MOTS-c work?
Released by mitochondria during metabolic stress, MOTS-c travels to the cell nucleus and activates AMPK pathways — the same pathways activated during exercise. This improves glucose uptake and fat metabolism.
Is MOTS-c FDA approved?
No. MOTS-c is a research compound and not approved by the FDA for human use. Evidence level: early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far.
What is the half-life of MOTS-c?
Reported half-life: Under investigation.
How is MOTS-c taken?
Subcutaneous injection (research settings).
What side effects have been reported with MOTS-c?
Reported in the sources: Very limited human data; Injection site reactions reported; Potential blood sugar changes; Research is still in early stages; Not available for clinical use.
Educational summary compiled from the sources listed above. Not medical advice. Peptide Vault does not sell, source or recommend any compound. Talk to a qualified clinician before starting or changing anything.