MOTS-c
Also known as: Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide | Metabolic Regulator
Overview
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that operates as a mitohormone through the Folate-AICAR-AMPK pathway. Under metabolic stress, it translocates to the nucleus to bind stress-response transcription factors (NRF2, ATF1/ATF7), regulating genes involved in metabolism and cellular adaptation.
Key benefits
- Enhanced insulin sensitivity (~30% improvement)
- Improved glucose metabolism and tolerance
- AMPK pathway activation
- Mitochondrial function optimization
- Exercise performance enhancement (12-15% improvement)
- Potential lifespan extension (6.4% median increase in mice)
Mechanism of action
Inhibits the folate cycle leading to AMPK activation. Under metabolic stress, translocates to nucleus to bind stress-response transcription factors, regulating genes involved in metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and cellular adaptation.
Molecular data
- Type
- Mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP)
- Half-life
- ~30 minutes
Sequence
Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg
Indications
What the research community uses this compound for, with self-reported effectiveness.
Metabolic
Anti-Aging
Exercise Performance
Dosing protocols
Common protocols by delivery method. Adjust the curve below to model accumulation in your own cycle.
Delivery method
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | 5-10mg | Once daily | — |
| — | 15mg | 3x weekly | — |
| — | 10-15mg | Pre-workout | — |
| — | 5mg | Once daily | — |
Safety
Reported adverse effects, contraindications, and what to monitor on cycle.
Common side effects
- Generally well-tolerated in animal studies with minimal side effects
- Mild injection site reactions (redness, swelling)
Contraindications
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- WADA prohibited substance (banned for athletic competition)
- Limited long-term human safety data
Monitoring
- Blood glucose if using diabetes medications
- Monitor for hypoglycemia symptoms
- Start conservatively (5-10mg)
- Appropriate medical supervision recommended
References
Primary literature and clinical-trial data informing this entry.
Featured in these stacks
- Anti-Aging BioregulatorsA bioregulator-style longevity stack pairing epitalon with NAD+ and MOTS-c for a multi-pathway approach.3 compounds
- Cellular Energy (NAD+)A mitochondrial-energy stack pairing injectable NAD+ with the mitochondrial peptide MOTS-c.2 compounds
- Endurance & MitochondrialAn aerobic-capacity stack pairing the mitochondrial peptide MOTS-c with taurine for endurance support.2 compounds
- Metabolic & MitochondrialA mitochondrial-targeted metabolic stack built on MOTS-c, with 5-Amino-1MQ as an optional NNMT-inhibitor add-on.2 compounds