MOTS-C
Mitochondrial-derived peptide. 16-amino acid exercise mimetic. Activates AMPK to improve insulin sensitivity, fat oxidation, and exercise capacity. Emerging longevity peptide.
Overview
Mitochondrial-derived peptide. 16-amino acid exercise mimetic. Activates AMPK to improve insulin sensitivity, fat oxidation, and exercise capacity. Emerging longevity peptide.
May improve fasting glucose and insulin sensitivity (AMPK activation). May reduce visceral fat. May improve lipid profile through enhanced fat oxidation. May reduce liver fat (preclinical). No direct impact on hormones or haematology. No completed human clinical trials.
Compound Guide
Structure: 16-amino acid peptide encoded by the mitochondrial genome (12S rRNA gene). Naturally occurring — levels decline with age and metabolic disease.
Dosage:
- Standard titration: 200mcg/day (weeks 1-2) → 400mcg (weeks 3-4) → 600-1000mcg (weeks 5-12)
- Alternative: 5-10mg/week SubQ (less frequent, higher dose)
- Cycle: 8-12 weeks (extendable to 16 weeks)
Administration:
- SubQ injection, once daily
- 27-30g insulin syringe
- Morning dosing preferred (metabolic activation during the day)
Key Notes:
- "Exercise mimetic" — activates AMPK pathway similar to physical exercise
- Improves insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake independently of insulin signalling
- Enhances fat oxidation and reduces visceral fat in animal models
- Old mice given MOTS-C ran twice as long as untreated controls (exercise capacity)
- May protect against diet-induced obesity and metabolic syndrome
- Potential synergy with Metformin (both activate AMPK via different mechanisms)
- Bodybuilding relevance: metabolic health support during GH/insulin use, fat loss, exercise performance, longevity
- NO completed human clinical trials — all evidence is preclinical
- Monitor: fasting glucose, HbA1c, fasting insulin, lipid panel
- Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water, store refrigerated
Usage History
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Reference
Category
Peptide
Half-Life
Unknown
Detection Time
N/A