MOTS-c
Grade BPromising mitokine with metabolic and exercise-mimetic effects in rodents. Early human pharmacokinetic data is emerging.
Mechanism of Action
Mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA. Activates AMPK, improves insulin sensitivity, and regulates nuclear gene expression in response to metabolic stress.
Typical Protocol
Dose
5–10 mg
Frequency
2–3× weekly
Duration
8–12 weeks
Timing
Pre-training mornings
Route
Subcutaneous
Half-life
~2 hours
Educational reference only — not medical advice.
Reported Benefits
- Improved glucose disposal in preclinical models
- Enhanced exercise capacity
- Mitochondrial biogenesis signaling
Side Effects
- Mild flushing
- Transient fatigue
- Injection site reaction
Contraindications
- Active malignancy
- Pregnancy
Known Interactions
MetforminBoth activate AMPK — stacking effect unclear.
SGLT2 inhibitorsPotential additive glucose-lowering.
References
Comparison vs Alternatives
All Peptides →| Attribute | MOTS-cThis page | SS-31 (Elamipretide) | Semaglutide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evidence | Grade B | Grade B | Grade A |
| Category | Mitochondrial | Mitochondrial | Metabolic |
| Best for | Mitochondrial signaling | Mitochondrial membrane stabilization | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Typical dose | 5–10 mg | 40 mg | 0.25 → 2.4 mg |
| Frequency | 2–3× weekly | Daily | Weekly |
| Route | Subcutaneous | Subcutaneous injection | Subcutaneous weekly (oral form available) |
| Legal status | Research chemical. Not approved for therapeutic use in humans. | Investigational. Not FDA-approved; available only via clinical trials or as a research chemical. | FDA-approved (Ozempic, Wegovy). Prescription required. |
| Action | Current page | View → | View → |