MOTS-c
Mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c
Mitochondrial peptide — metabolic switch
About
A naturally occurring peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA. Increases AMPK activity, improves glucose tolerance and metabolic flexibility.
Mechanism
Activates the AMPK pathway, promoting fat oxidation, glucose utilization, and mitochondrial health.
Dosage
Draw to 50 units on a U-100 insulin syringe
10 mg · 1 mL BAC
When to take: Pre-workout or in the morning on an empty stomach.
Reconstitution
Vial size (mg): 10 mg · BAC water (mL): 1 mL · Concentration: 10 mg/mL
Relatively expensive — measure precisely.
Dosing reference
Units to draw at the typical dose range, per vial size.
| Vial | Water | Typical draw |
|---|---|---|
| 10 mg | 1 mL | 50–100 units |
Benefits
- Improved mitochondrial function
- Increased insulin sensitivity
- Fat loss
- Improved energy
- Slower aging (animal data)
- Improved athletic performance
Side effects
- Generally very well tolerated
- Rare: mild fatigue at first
Gender notes
Cautions
- Pregnancy (no research)
- Type 1 diabetes (caution — monitor blood glucose)
Research
- Lee C et al: MOTS-c regulates insulin sensitivity
Cell Metabolism · 2015
Landmark study that defined MOTS-c and its activity.
- Reynolds JC et al: MOTS-c improves muscle insulin sensitivity
Nature Communications · 2021
MOTS-c improves muscle metabolic health and endurance performance in mice.