MOTS-c
The Mitochondrial-Encoded Peptide for Metabolic Youth
Molecular Data
- Formula
- C92H152N26O26S
- Molecular Weight
- 2174.44 g/mol
01
Overview
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-C) is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the mitochondrial genome. Discovered by Pinchas Cohen in 2015, it is translocated to the nucleus during metabolic stress where it regulates adaptive gene expression, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic homeostasis. It declines significantly with age.
02
Mechanism of Action
MOTS-c activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) and translocates to the nucleus under stress where it regulates nuclear gene expression. It inhibits the folate cycle and de novo purine biosynthesis, channeling resources to AMPK-mediated metabolic adaptation. It also modulates insulin receptor substrate signaling.
03
Research Highlights
University of Southern California research demonstrates exercise-mimetic effects in sedentary mice
Circulating levels in humans shown to decline progressively with age
Obesity studies show prevention of diet-induced weight gain and insulin resistance
04
Dosage
Administration & Timing
Subcutaneous (SC) injection into abdominal or gluteal subcutaneous tissue, typically 1–3× weekly. Research protocols administer independent of food; pre-exercise dosing documented.
Dosage Guidelines
Cycle Length
4–8 weeks; followed by 2–4 week rest.
05
Reconstitution
Solvent
Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% benzyl alcohol)
Volume
2 mL added to a 10 mg vial
Concentration
5 mg/mL
Storage
Lyophilized powder: store at -20 °C long-term. Reconstituted: refrigerate 2–8 °C, use within 30 days.
Notes
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide. Pre-exercise dosing is documented in metabolic research.
Research Reference Only
Dosage and reconstitution values reflect commonly cited ranges from published research literature and are presented for educational and research reference only. This is not medical advice or a dosing recommendation. HEXAGEN does not endorse human use of any compound. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Research Disclaimer
MOTS-c is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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MOTS-c — Common Research Questions
What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-C) is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the mitochondrial genome. Discovered by Pinchas Cohen in 2015, it is translocate... MOTS-c belongs to the Anti Aging research category and is studied for its the mitochondrial-encoded peptide for metabolic youth.
How does MOTS-c work?
MOTS-c activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) and translocates to the nucleus under stress where it regulates nuclear gene expression. It inhibits the folate cycle and de novo purine biosynthesis, channeling resources to AMPK-mediated metabolic adaptation. It also modulates insulin receptor substrate signaling.
What are the key research benefits of MOTS-c?
Insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism restoration. Regulation of folate cycle and AMPK activation. Exercise mimetic effects on skeletal muscle. Obesity and metabolic syndrome research. Anti-aging metabolic effects matching younger physiological patterns. Stress response and resilience enhancement.
What is the molecular structure of MOTS-c?
MOTS-c has the molecular formula C92H152N26O26S and a molecular weight of 2174.44 g/mol. This structural information is important for researchers studying receptor binding and pharmacokinetics.
What does the research say about MOTS-c?
University of Southern California research demonstrates exercise-mimetic effects in sedentary mice Circulating levels in humans shown to decline progressively with age Obesity studies show prevention of diet-induced weight gain and insulin resistance These findings are based on preclinical and clinical research. MOTS-c is a research compound and these studies do not constitute medical advice.
Is MOTS-c FDA approved?
No. MOTS-c is not FDA-approved for any indication. It is a research chemical studied in preclinical and early clinical research. These compounds are not approved for human therapeutic use and should only be studied in appropriate research settings.
What category does MOTS-c belong to?
MOTS-c belongs to the Anti Aging category, which focuses on peptides researched for their telomere-supporting, mitochondrial-protective, and senolytic properties aligned with healthy longevity science. You can explore more compounds in this category on the Anti Aging pillar page.
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Scientific References
Lee et al. — "MOTS-c: mitochondrial-derived peptide" (Cell Metabolism, 2015)
Cohen lab — USC exercise-mimetic and insulin sensitivity research
Ming et al. — Obesity and metabolic syndrome prevention, 2016
University of Southern California research demonstrates exercise-mimetic effects in sedentary mice
Circulating levels in humans shown to decline progressively with age
Obesity studies show prevention of diet-induced weight gain and insulin resistance