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
MOTS-c dosing overview
Commonly cited at 5–10 mg daily, often for 4–12 week cycles
| Context | Amount | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commonly cited protocol | 5–10 mg | Daily or 3× weekly | Subcutaneous |
| Cycle length | — | 4–12 weeks | — |
This describes doses reported in published literature and community protocols. It is not a recommendation, and it is not a substitute for clinical supervision.
MOTS-c FAQ
What is MOTS-c?
A 16-amino-acid peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA. It acts on metabolic signalling — notably AMPK activation — and is studied as an exercise-mimetic and insulin-sensitising factor.
Is there human evidence?
Human data is observational: MOTS-c levels rise with exercise and differ between metabolic phenotypes. Interventional dosing evidence is animal-only.
Is MOTS-c banned in sport?
Yes. WADA added mitochondrial-derived peptides including MOTS-c to the prohibited list as metabolic modulators.
Does the oral form work?
Unclear. Oral capsules are marketed, but no published pharmacokinetic study shows meaningful absorption of intact MOTS-c.
Research references
- Lee et al., 2015 — MOTS-c as a mitochondrial-encoded regulator of metabolism
- Reynolds et al., 2021 — MOTS-c and physical performance