MOTS-c
Mitochondrial-derived peptide for metabolic optimization and longevity.
Key Benefits
activates AMPK pathways to improve how your cells burn fuel, supporting fat loss and energy efficiency
research shows 10–15% improvement in insulin response, helping cells absorb glucose more effectively
triggers the body's master energy sensor, mimicking the metabolic effects of caloric restriction and exercise
signals directly from mitochondria to the nucleus to protect and restore cellular energy production
Active Signaling Pathway
MOTS-c is a mitochondria-derived peptide that travels from the mitochondria to the nucleus, activating AMPK — the master energy sensor. This triggers a cascade of metabolic improvements across virtually every tissue type.
Investigated Pathways
Proposed Mechanism
MOTS-c is encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene and acts as a retrograde mitochondrial signal. It translocates to the nucleus under metabolic stress, where it activates AMPK and regulates nuclear gene expression. This unique mitochondria-to-nucleus signaling pathway makes it distinct from all other known peptides.
Research Highlights
- 2015 Cell Metabolism study (Lee et al.) identified MOTS-c as the first mitochondria-encoded peptide to regulate systemic metabolism
- Demonstrated 10–15% improvement in insulin sensitivity in murine models of diet-induced obesity
- Shown to extend lifespan in C. elegans by up to 18% via AMPK/FOXO pathway activation
- 2021 research showed MOTS-c levels decline significantly with age in humans, correlating with metabolic decline
Research is at an early stage. Findings are preliminary and have not been replicated in controlled human studies.
For laboratory research only
All Research Systems →Human Body
Research begins at the whole-organism level — studying systemic metabolic markers, energy expenditure, and physiological response to peptide intervention.
For laboratory research and educational purposes only.
Human Body
Research begins at the whole-organism level — studying systemic metabolic markers, energy expenditure, and physiological response to peptide intervention.
For laboratory research and educational purposes only.
For research use only — not for human consumption. No treatment claims.
Full Research Hub →Recommended Stacks
MOTS-c is a key compound in these curated research stacks. Pair it with synergistic peptides for enhanced outcomes.
Longevity & Anti-Aging
Target the three root mechanisms of biological aging — mitochondrial decline, NAD+ depletion, and telomere shortening.
How long will one vial last?
Based on standard research protocols, here's exactly what to expect from a single 10mg vial — and when to plan your next order.
Vial supply estimate is based on standard research protocol volumes. Actual duration will vary based on your specific protocol design.
Scientific Background
Mechanism of Action
MOTS-c is encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene and acts as a retrograde mitochondrial signal. It translocates to the nucleus under metabolic stress, where it activates AMPK and regulates nuclear gene expression. This unique mitochondria-to-nucleus signaling pathway makes it distinct from all other known peptides.
Clinical Context
MOTS-c circulates in human blood and its levels are measurable. Studies in aging populations show a strong inverse correlation between MOTS-c levels and metabolic disease markers. Exercise has been shown to transiently increase endogenous MOTS-c, suggesting it may mediate some of the metabolic benefits of physical activity.
Research Highlights
- 2015 Cell Metabolism study (Lee et al.) identified MOTS-c as the first mitochondria-encoded peptide to regulate systemic metabolism
- Demonstrated 10–15% improvement in insulin sensitivity in murine models of diet-induced obesity
- Shown to extend lifespan in C. elegans by up to 18% via AMPK/FOXO pathway activation
- 2021 research showed MOTS-c levels decline significantly with age in humans, correlating with metabolic decline
Storage & Reconstitution
Key Studies
MOTS-c: a mitochondrial-derived peptide regulating muscle and fat metabolism
Lee C et al.
Discovery study: MOTS-c is the first mitochondria-encoded peptide to regulate systemic metabolism, improving insulin sensitivity by 10–15% in obese mice.
PubMed →MOTS-c as an exercise mimetic
Reynolds JC et al.
MOTS-c mediates some metabolic benefits of exercise; levels increase with physical activity and decline with age.
PubMed →MOTS-c improves metabolic health in aging
Kim SJ et al.
MOTS-c supplementation improved metabolic parameters and extended healthspan in aging animal models via AMPK/FOXO pathway activation.
PubMed →Pharmacokinetics
Bioavailability indicates how much of the compound reaches systemic circulation. Peak plasma is when blood levels are highest. Half-life determines dosing frequency — compounds with short half-lives require more frequent dosing to maintain therapeutic levels.
The volume of distribution reflects how widely the compound distributes into tissues. A higher Vd means the compound concentrates in tissues rather than staying in plasma.
Receptor Binding Profile
Master energy sensor activation — mimics metabolic effects of caloric restriction and exercise
Longevity gene expression regulation via nuclear signaling
Unique mitochondria-to-nucleus retrograde signaling pathway
Improved insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
Side Effects & Adverse Events
- Mild injection site reactions
- Transient fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea at high doses
- None documented in research
Contraindications & Interactions
Synergistic Compounds
MOTS-c activates AMPK while NAD+ activates sirtuins — complementary longevity and metabolic pathways.
MOTS-c 5 mg SubQ + NAD+ 250 mg SubQ, daily or every other day.
View Compound →Epithalon targets telomere length and pineal function while MOTS-c targets mitochondrial metabolism — complementary longevity mechanisms.
MOTS-c 5 mg SubQ every other day + Epithalon 5 mg SubQ daily (10-day cycles).
View Compound →Transparent Global Sourcing
Manufactured
Sourced through our manufacturing partner in China
Independent Testing
Analytical reports available from Janoshik Analytical
Batch Verification
Batch-specific COAs with online verification via janoshik.com
US Fulfillment
Orders fulfilled from the United States