Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c
MOTS-c
Cited range Mitochondrial-encoded peptide
What it is
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in the mitochondrial 12S rRNA region. It is studied as a retrograde signal from mitochondria to the nucleus in metabolic stress.
Benefits in plain language
What researchers and reference users usually mean when they talk about this compound. These are study themes and common claims — not a promise that it will do this in you.
- A mitochondrial-encoded peptide studied as an exercise-mimetic metabolic signal.
- Mouse papers: better insulin sensitivity, more exercise-like gene chatter, some fat and aging angles.
- Human practice is ahead of human proof. Think “metabolic research,” not a guaranteed cut.
If a branded, FDA-approved product exists, that label is the only dose that is actually authorized. Research-chemical vials are a different object.
Mechanism of action
In rodents it has been linked to AMPK activation, folate-methionine cycle effects, and improved metabolic flexibility under high-fat diet. That is not the same as a completed human indication.
Possible side effects / caveats
Human AE profile is thin. Injection-site reactions and unknown long-term endocrine effects are the honest caveats.
Protocol ranges
| Source tier | Amount | Frequency / duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cited range | 5–15 mg | A few times per week, often 3×/week | Common secondary window |
| Cited range | 10 mg | 2–3× weekly | Frequently repeated catalog figure |