Mitochondrial-derived 16-amino-acid peptide (mitokine)
MOTS-c
Mitochondrial-derived peptide for metabolic homeostasis and longevity research.
- Half-lifeVariable, plasma kinetics not fully characterised
- Dose range5 to 10 mg subcutaneous, 2 to 4 times weekly · 8 to 12 week cycle
- Reconstituted stability28 days, 2–8 °C
- VerificationCOA included
Mechanism
How it works.
Activates AMPK signalling. Improves insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle. Translocates to nucleus under stress to modulate gene expression.
Research
What the research shows.
Animal studies show improved insulin sensitivity, reduced fat mass on high-fat diet, and improved exercise capacity, with strongest effects in older animals. Human studies are early-stage but consistent in direction.
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded inside the 12S rRNA region of the mitochondrial genome rather than the nuclear genome. Discovered by Pinchas Cohen lab at USC in 2015 and published in Cell Metabolism, it was the first identified mitokine, a peptide messenger produced by mitochondria that signals to distant tissues.
Endogenous MOTS-c levels decline with age. Animal-research data is strong on metabolic and exercise-adaptation outcomes. Human research is preliminary but favourable in direction.
Contraindications
When not to use.
Active malignancy (theoretical metabolic-pathway concerns). Pregnancy. No data on peri-operative use.
Optimal pairings
Stacks well with.
Information is educational, derived from published research. Not medical advice. All compounds sold for research use only. Bloodwork and a clinical consultation should precede any new protocol.