MOTS-C
A mitochondrial peptide that mimics exercise — boosts metabolism and endurance. MOTS-C is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that regulates metabolic homeostasis and has exercise-mimetic effects. Studied for improving insulin sensitivity, fat metabolism, and physical performance. Considered a promising target for metabolic diseases and aging.
Compare Prices🧬Key Characteristics
- Length: 16 amino acids(Mitochondrial origin.)
- Origin: 12S rRNA gene(Encoded in mtDNA.)
- Mechanism: AMPK activation(Metabolic regulator.)
- Primary Use: Metabolic health(Insulin sensitivity + exercise mimetic.)
Overview
Core Benefits
Key AdvantagesThese are educational summaries of commonly discussed effects in wellness/regenerative contexts, not guarantees.
MOTS-C Results Timeline
ProgressionTimeline is illustrative and non-guaranteed. Outcomes vary and are commonly discussed alongside training, nutrition, sleep, and cycling practices.
How It Works
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide — Exercise MimeticTarget → AMPK Activation → Metabolic Adaptation → Outcomes
AMPK (AMP-Activated Protein Kinase)
MOTS-c is encoded in mitochondrial DNA and activates AMPK — the same "energy sensor" pathway triggered by exercise. This makes it one of the few true "exercise mimetic" peptides, activating metabolic pathways that normally require physical activity.
AMPK Activation → Glucose Uptake + Fat Oxidation
AMPK activation increases cellular glucose uptake (independent of insulin), enhances fatty acid oxidation, and improves mitochondrial biogenesis. MOTS-c also regulates the folate-methionine cycle, affecting gene expression patterns related to metabolism.
Metabolic Optimization + Insulin Sensitivity
Improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced fat utilization for energy, better exercise tolerance, and metabolic flexibility. MOTS-c levels naturally decline with age, which may contribute to age-related metabolic dysfunction.
Better Exercise Tolerance → Fat Loss → Energy
Improved exercise capacity and endurance. Enhanced fat loss, especially when combined with exercise. Better blood sugar regulation. Increased energy levels. Effects build over weeks of consistent use.
What Makes This Peptide Different
MOTS-c is one of few mitochondrial-derived peptides — encoded in mitochondrial DNA rather than nuclear DNA. Its AMPK activation mimics the metabolic benefits of exercise at the cellular level. Unlike GH peptides that work through hormonal pathways, MOTS-c works directly on cellular energy metabolism. Naturally declines with age, making it a target for age-related metabolic support.
Dosing Protocol
Metabolic Health / Fat LossEducational reference only. Individual responses vary. Consult healthcare provider before use.
Why This Dosing Protocol
Why morning/pre-exercise? MOTS-c activates the same AMPK pathway as exercise. Taking it before physical activity may enhance the metabolic response to training.
Why 5 on / 2 off? Prevents potential pathway desensitization and allows cellular recovery. Consistent with standard peptide cycling approaches.
Diagrams
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MOTS-C Pricing
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5 mg / vial
In-stock offers10 mg / vial
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Reconstitution calculator
Dilution math and unit conversions. Prefilled using a common vial size for this peptide.
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How to Reconstitute Peptides
Handling
Educational overview on storage, labeling, and traceability considerations for lab environments. Consult primary literature and vendor documentation for specifics.
- Freezer (-20°C): 1+ year ✓
- Refrigerator (2-8°C): 1-3 months ✓
- Room temperature: 2-3 weeks (emergency only)
- MUST refrigerate at 2-8°C
- 4-week maximum shelf life
- NEVER freeze after reconstitution
- Use bacteriostatic water for multi-dose
Storage & Handling Guide
Learn proper storage temperatures, shelf life timelines, reconstitution best practices, and travel tips for lyophilized and reconstituted peptides.
FAQ
Why is MOTS-c called an 'exercise mimetic'?
MOTS-c activates AMPK, the same metabolic master switch triggered by exercise. This improves glucose uptake, enhances fatty acid oxidation, and increases insulin sensitivity — effects normally achieved through physical activity. Studies show MOTS-c can improve exercise capacity and metabolic markers even without exercise, though it works best alongside physical activity.
How does MOTS-c differ from other longevity peptides like Epitalon or SS-31?
While Epitalon targets telomerase and SS-31 targets cardiolipin in mitochondria, MOTS-c works through AMPK activation to regulate whole-body metabolism. MOTS-c is unique because it's encoded in mitochondrial DNA (not nuclear DNA) and acts as a signaling molecule from mitochondria to the rest of the body — a process called "retrograde signaling."
Why do MOTS-c levels decline with age?
MOTS-c is produced from mitochondrial DNA, and mitochondrial function declines with age. Lower MOTS-c correlates with metabolic dysfunction, insulin resistance, and age-related diseases. Research suggests restoring MOTS-c levels may help reverse some aspects of metabolic aging, which is why it's being studied for type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Can MOTS-c help with weight loss?
MOTS-c improves fat metabolism by activating AMPK, which shifts cells toward burning fat for energy. Animal studies show it prevents diet-induced obesity and improves metabolic markers. In humans, higher natural MOTS-c levels are associated with lower body fat. It's not a direct fat burner like GLP-1 drugs, but works by improving how your body processes and burns fuel.
What's the connection between MOTS-c and muscle performance?
MOTS-c enhances skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake, improving how muscles use fuel during exercise. Studies in older mice showed MOTS-c treatment improved running capacity and physical performance. It may help maintain muscle metabolic function during aging, which is why athletes and longevity researchers are interested in it.
How long does reconstituted peptide last?
Once mixed with bacteriostatic water, peptides remain stable for up to 4 weeks when refrigerated at 2-8°C (36-46°F). Unopened powder can last 1+ year in the freezer. Get our complete Storage & Travel Guide.
Is this peptide legal to purchase?
Peptides sold "for research purposes only" are legal to purchase in the US, but are not FDA-approved for human use outside of specific medical applications. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.
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Scientific Sources
The following peer-reviewed studies and official resources provide additional scientific context for this peptide:
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