MOTS-c
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA. It acts as a metabolic regulator, activating AMPK and improving insulin sensitivity and fat metabolism in animal studies. It is researched for metabolic health, exercise capacity, and aging, and is sometimes called an "exercise mimetic."
What it is
Most peptides are encoded in nuclear DNA; MOTS-c is one of a small group encoded by the mitochondrial genome. It is released in response to metabolic stress and exercise, moves to the nucleus, and changes gene expression toward improved glucose handling and fat use. Levels fall with age and are lower in insulin-resistant people. Sold as lyophilized 10mg vials.
What the research says
Current research includes:
- Discovery paper: MOTS-c prevented diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance in mice and improved muscle metabolism (PMID 25738459)
- Improved physical performance and prevented age-related decline in older mice
- Exercise raises circulating MOTS-c in humans
- A phase 1/2a trial of a MOTS-c analog (CB4211) in people with obesity and fatty liver reported reductions in glucose and weight
- No published long-term human trials of MOTS-c itself
Research dosing ranges
Anecdotal protocols describe 5–10 mg per injection, 1–3 times per week, subcutaneous, for 4–8 weeks. Some protocols use smaller daily doses (2–3 mg). Frequently timed before exercise.
Reconstitution tables
10mg vial
| Bacteriostatic water | Concentration | mcg per unit | Units for 5 mg | Units for 10 mg | Doses per vial (5 mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 ml | 10 mg/ml | 100 mcg | 50 | 100 | 2 |
| 2 ml | 5 mg/ml | 50 mcg | 100 | exceeds 1 ml | 2 |
Because doses are large, 1 ml of water is the most practical. reconstitution calculator.
Storage
- Refrigerate powder and reconstituted solution; use within ~4 weeks; protect from light.
Common stacks
- MOTS-c + NAD+ (mitochondrial).
- MOTS-c + a GLP-1 agonist for metabolic goals.
Side effects reported
Generally well tolerated in reports. Injection-site reactions, transient fatigue or headache, and occasional lightheadedness. Data is too limited to characterize rare effects.
Video explanation
Third-party educational video. Not affiliated with PepIQ.
Frequently asked questions
What is MOTS-c used for?
Primarily metabolic health, insulin sensitivity, and exercise performance research.
How many units is 5 mg of MOTS-c?
At 10 mg/ml, 50 units.
Is it the same as exercising?
It activates some of the same pathways (AMPK), but it does not replace training.
How long does a 10mg vial last?
Two 5 mg doses — typically one week.
Does MOTS-c cause weight loss?
Animal data shows reduced fat gain; human weight-loss data is limited to the analog trial.
Track MOTS-c cycles and training-day dosing in PepIQ.
Use PepIQ to scan vials and access the verified peptide shop.
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