How it works
Encoded by mitochondrial 12S rRNA, MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus and activates the folate/AMPK axis. This improves cellular glucose uptake, increases fatty-acid oxidation and promotes metabolic flexibility under nutrient stress.
Structure: 16 amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide
Reported benefits
- Improved insulin sensitivity and glucose disposal in rodent models
- Enhanced fat oxidation and reduced fat accumulation
- Exercise-mimetic effects on metabolism and physical capacity
- Potential protection against diet-induced metabolic dysfunction
Practical considerations
- Most evidence is preclinical; human trials are small and early-phase
- Short half-life may require daily or twice-daily dosing
- Bioavailability of oral forms is uncertain compared with injection
Side effects and risks
- Limited human safety data
- Injection-site irritation
- Possible hypoglycaemia in susceptible individuals
Dosing overview
Commonly cited at 5–10 mg daily, often for 4–12 week cycles
This describes doses reported in published literature and community protocols. It is not a recommendation, and it is not a substitute for clinical supervision.
Research references
- Lee et al., 2015 — MOTS-c as a mitochondrial-encoded regulator of metabolism
- Reynolds et al., 2021 — MOTS-c and physical performance