Peptide Association
Start Your Consultation
All peptides
LongevityResearch Phase

MOTS-c

Subcutaneous injection
Written by Peptide Association Editorial TeamMedically reviewed by Ian Justl Ellis, MD, CPTLast reviewed Editorial policy

Overview

A mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by the 12S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA. MOTS-c is a 16-amino acid peptide that acts as an exercise mimetic by activating AMPK and regulating metabolic homeostasis.

Mechanism of Action

It translocates to the nucleus under metabolic stress to regulate nuclear gene expression related to glucose metabolism and cellular stress responses.

Research Summary & Key Findings

Research demonstrated prevention of age-dependent and high-fat diet-induced insulin resistance in mice. MOTS-c levels decline with age and are elevated after exercise. Studies show improved physical performance in aged mice and regulation of skeletal muscle metabolism (Lee et al., Cell Metabolism, 2015).

Clinical Status

Research Phase

MOTS-c is in the research phase with limited clinical data in humans. Current evidence is primarily derived from preclinical (animal or in vitro) studies.

Administration Routes

Subcutaneous injection

References

Primary literature

Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.

Related Peptides in Longevity

Epithalon (Epitalon)

Research Phase

A synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) based on the natural epithalamin peptide produced by the pineal gland. Epitha...

View details

Humanin

Research Phase

A 24-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 16S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA. Humanin exerts cy...

View details

NAD+ Precursors (NMN)

In Clinical Trials

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a direct biosynthetic precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a coen...

View details

SS-31 (Elamipretide)

In Clinical Trials

A mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide (D-Arg-dimethylTyr-Lys-Phe-NH2) that selectively concentrates in the inner mitochon...

View details

Start Your Consultation

Get an AI-proposed MOTS-c protocol reviewed by a physician in our network.

Start Your Consultation

Find a Pharmacy

Browse PCAB-accredited and FDA 503B-registered compounding pharmacies that supply MOTS-c.

Pharmacy Directory

Join the Association

Access exclusive peptide protocols, provider resources, and community support.

List Your Practice

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide therapy. The Peptide Association does not endorse or recommend any specific treatment protocol. See our editorial policy for how this content is produced and reviewed.