MOTS-c
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by a short open reading frame within mitochondrial DNA. Preclinical research suggests it may influence energy metabolism and insulin sensitivity through activation of the AMPK signaling pathway. Human clinical trial data remain very limited, and most available evidence comes from animal and cell-culture studies. It is considered an emerging research compound rather than an established weight-management therapy.
Reported benefits
- May support insulin sensitivity based on preclinical research
- Proposed role in mitochondrial energy metabolism
- Investigated for potential effects on exercise capacity in animal studies
- Distinct mechanism (AMPK pathway) from incretin-based weight agents
How it works
MOTS-c is proposed to translocate to the nucleus under metabolic stress and regulate gene expression related to energy metabolism, partly through activation of AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase). AMPK activation is associated with increased glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation in preclinical models, which is the basis for interest in its potential metabolic and weight-related effects in humans.
Dosing ranges
| Tier | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 5 mg | twice weekly |
| Moderate | 10 mg | twice weekly |
| High | 10 mg | three times weekly |
Estimate your dose
Dose estimator
Educational estimate for MOTS-c, scaled to body size. Not medical advice.
Read before using
This tool produces a rough, educational estimate by scaling commonly-published research ranges to lean body mass. It is not a prescription, medical advice, or a substitute for a licensed clinician. Most peptides use fixed dosing, not weight-based dosing. Individual needs vary. You are solely responsible for how you use this information.
Mixing & syringe units
Target dose follows the estimate above. Change it there, or edit it directly below.
Reconstitution calculator
How much water to add and how many insulin-syringe units to draw for MOTS-c. Educational only.
Draw to this mark
200units
= 2 mL for a 10 mg dose
Concentration
5 mg/mL
Doses per vial
1
This dose needs 200 units, more than a 100-unit syringe holds. Add more water, split the dose, or use a larger syringe.
A U-100 syringe reads 100 units per mL. This is a reconstitution math helper only, not a prescription or dosing advice. Verify every calculation and consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Possible side effects
Stacking notes
Sometimes discussed alongside other metabolic-research peptides; no controlled human data support or refute combination use.
Common protocols
Common questions
What is MOTS-c used for?
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by a short open reading frame within mitochondrial DNA. Preclinical research suggests it may influence energy metabolism and insulin sensitivity through activation of the AMPK signaling pathway. Human clinical trial data remain very limited, and most available evidence comes from animal and cell-culture studies. It is considered an emerging research compound rather than an established weight-management therapy. Reported benefits include may support insulin sensitivity based on preclinical research, proposed role in mitochondrial energy metabolism, investigated for potential effects on exercise capacity in animal studies.
What is a typical MOTS-c dose?
Reported ranges run 5-10 mg. A low protocol is 5 mg twice weekly, and a high protocol is 10 mg three times weekly. This is reference information, not a dosing recommendation.
What is the half life of MOTS-c?
Not well characterized in humans; preclinical data suggest a short half-life on the order of minutes to a few hours. That is what sets the dosing frequency, and it is why the timing guidance is ~30 min before a workout.
How is MOTS-c administered?
Subcutaneous: into fat, under the skin.
How long is a MOTS-c cycle?
Research protocols commonly reference cycles of 8-12 weeks on, followed by 4 weeks or more between cycles in informal research protocols off. No standardized cycle length has been established in peer-reviewed human research.
What are the side effects of MOTS-c?
Reported side effects include injection-site reactions, limited human safety data; adverse effect profile not well characterized, potential for unknown effects given the short duration of most existing research, theoretical risk of interactions with metabolic conditions or medications, not yet studied. Evidence level for this compound is emerging research.
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Educational use only, not medical advice. This profile is provided for research and educational purposes. MOTS-c may be a research compound or a prescription medication; nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dosing figures reflect commonly-published research ranges, not a prescription. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any health decision. Read the full disclaimer →