WhatPeptide

MOTS-c

MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA, studied for its roles in metabolic homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, exercise adaptation, and anti-aging. Circulating levels decline with age and are transiently elevated by exercise, suggesting a role as a metabolic hormone. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023) as 'MOTs-C.'

Preliminary evidence FDA Category 2 Mitochondrial

Written by WhatPeptide Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-03-17

FDA Category 2 — compounding availability may be limited.

Half-life

Estimated 12-24 hours based on preclinical data

Dosage range

5-15 mg subcutaneously weekly (research context; no established human dose)

Administration

Subcutaneous injection

Research level

Preliminary

How MOTS-c works

MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus under metabolic stress and activates AMPK and FOXO-dependent transcription, enhancing glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and reducing fatty acid synthesis through one-carbon metabolism pathway modulation. In aged animal models, systemic MOTS-c administration improved physical performance, insulin sensitivity, and reduced adiposity, partially by increasing mitochondrial biogenesis. Its classification as a mitokine reflects its role in inter-organelle and inter-tissue communication.

Also known as: Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c, Mitochondrial-derived peptide

Research relevance

Anti-Aging & Longevity
Moderate relevance 60
Fat Loss
Moderate relevance 55
Muscle Growth
Some relevance 40

Side effects & safety

Limited human safety data Potential hypoglycemia Injection site reactions

Contraindications

No established human safety profile
Pregnancy
Diabetes requiring tight glucose management

Consult a healthcare provider before use if any of these apply to you.

Key studies

FAQ

What is MOTS-c? +
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA, studied for its roles in metabolic homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, exercise adaptation, and anti-aging. Circulating levels decline with age and are transiently elevated by exercise, suggesting a role as a metabolic hormone. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023) as 'MOTs-C.' Its mechanism of action is based on preliminary or early-stage research.
What is MOTS-c researched for? +
MOTS-c has the strongest research relevance for Anti-Aging & Longevity, Fat Loss, Muscle Growth. Evidence is based on preliminary or early-stage research.
What are the side effects of MOTS-c? +
Reported side effects include Limited human safety data, Potential hypoglycemia, Injection site reactions. Key contraindications: No established human safety profile; Pregnancy; Diabetes requiring tight glucose management.
Is MOTS-c FDA approved? +
MOTS-c is classified as FDA Category 2, meaning compounding availability may be limited.
How is MOTS-c administered? +
MOTS-c is typically administered via subcutaneous route. Researched dosage range: 5-15 mg subcutaneously weekly (research context; no established human dose). Half-life: Estimated 12-24 hours based on preclinical data.

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