MOTS-c

Peptoris Labs

MOTS-c

£30.00

Plan your course

Not sure of the dose? Use the figure from this product's research protocol and choose whether it is per day or per week below.

Dose Frequency Course length

— vial(s) needed at — vial size

Estimate only — based on a steady dose at your chosen frequency and selected vial size. Titration may use less in early weeks. For research use only, not medical advice.

Description

MOTS-c is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome, discovered in 2015 by researchers at the University of Southern California. Unlike most peptides derived from nuclear DNA, MOTS-c is expressed from the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene, making it one of a small class of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) with systemic signaling functions. Research has shown MOTS-c acts as a metabolic regulator, improving insulin sensitivity, enhancing exercise capacity, and demonstrating effects that mimic caloric restriction—one of the most robust interventions for extending lifespan in animal models. Its decline with age and restoration of youthful phenotypes in aged animals has made it a focus of aging research.

MOTS-c — 10mg protocol. Edit the doses below for the 10mg vial.

Quickstart Highlights

MOTS-c is a 16–amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) that acts as a metabolic regulator, primarily through AMPK activation[1][2]. Preclinical studies show it enhances insulin sensitivity, promotes fat oxidation, improves exercise capacity, and counters age-related metabolic decline[1][4].

Storage Instructions

Proper storage preserves peptide quality and potency.

  • Lyophilized: Store at −20 °C (−4 °F) or below in dry, dark conditions; include desiccant if available to minimize moisture exposure.
  • Reconstituted: Refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F); peptide degrades rapidly at room temperature (~25% activity loss after 24 hours at 4 °C)[7]. Use within 7 days for best potency.
  • Aliquoting: Prepare single-use aliquots and freeze at −20 °C (−4 °F) if needed; avoid freeze–thaw cycles.
  • Allow vials to reach room temperature before opening to reduce condensation uptake.

Important Notes

Practical considerations for consistency and safety.

  • Use new sterile insulin syringes for each injection; dispose in a sharps container[11].
  • Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) to reduce local irritation and prevent lipohypertrophy[11].
  • Inject slowly; wait a few seconds before withdrawing the needle.
  • Document daily dose, injection site, and any observations to maintain consistency.
  • Discontinue use and consult a medical professional if any concerning symptoms arise.

How It Works

MOTS-c functions as a metabolic “stress signal” that helps optimize energy usage during nutrient stress or exercise[2]. Its primary mechanism is AMPK activation through inhibition of the folate cycle, causing accumulation of AICAR (an AMP analog)[1][2]. Activated AMPK shifts cells into an energy-efficient mode – enhancing glucose uptake, fatty-acid oxidation, and mitochondrial respiration while downregulating fat storage and gluconeogenesis[2].

MOTS-c can also translocate to the cell nucleus under stress conditions and upregulate antioxidant and stress-response genes[2]. This retrograde signaling from mitochondria to nucleus increases expression of cytoprotective enzymes, helping cells cope with oxidative stress. Research indicates MOTS-c may also modulate mTOR and inflammatory pathways, contributing to lifespan and healthspan effects[10]. Its actions resemble those of exercise and metformin at a cellular level[2], making it of great interest for metabolic disorders, obesity, and aging research.

Potential Benefits & Side Effects

Observations from preclinical literature (no human clinical trials completed to date)[8]:

  • Metabolic Health: Improves insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism in mouse models; prevents diet-induced insulin resistance[1][7].
  • Weight & Fat Reduction: Prevents obesity and reduces visceral fat in obese mice through increased energy expenditure and fat oxidation[1][7].
  • Post-Menopausal Metabolism: Mitigates metabolic decline in ovariectomized mice; prevents menopause-related fat gain and insulin resistance[3].
  • Physical Performance: Enhances exercise capacity and counters age-related frailty; old mice ran 2× longer on treadmill tests[4][7].
  • Organ Protection: Reduces liver fat accumulation, improves cardiac function, and may support cognitive function in preliminary studies[2][7].
  • Bone & Immunity: Promotes osteoblast activity, inhibits osteoclast formation; modulates immune aging and protects pancreatic islet cells in autoimmune diabetes models[5][10].
  • Safety: No adverse effects reported in preclinical studies; human tolerability unknown. A modified analog (CB4211) showed good tolerability in a Phase 1 trial[7].

Note: These benefits have been demonstrated only in controlled research settings (mice or cells). Translation to humans requires clinical studies.

Lifestyle Factors

Complementary strategies for best outcomes based on MOTS-c’s metabolic mechanisms.

  • Pair with a balanced, protein-forward diet tailored to energy needs.
  • Combine resistance training and aerobic activity to reinforce metabolic adaptations and AMPK signaling[4][8].
  • Prioritize sleep (7–9 hours) and stress management to support mitochondrial health and recovery.
  • Consider intermittent fasting or caloric restriction, which may synergize with MOTS-c’s AMPK-mediated effects.

References

Certificate of Analysis

Every batch of MOTS-c is independently lab-tested to a minimum of 98% purity. A Certificate of Analysis is available on request — contact us with your order or lot number and we'll send the COA for your specific batch.

Request a COA

Research Protocol

Full dose-by-dose reconstitution & dosing protocol for MOTS-c.

View Research Protocol →

For laboratory and scientific research use only. Not medical advice.

For laboratory and research use only. Minimum 98% purity. Supplied in sterile, flip-top headspace vials for laboratory use. Not intended for human or animal consumption, medical, diagnostic, therapeutic or veterinary use. These statements have not been evaluated by the MHRA or FDA. The purchaser accepts full responsibility for safe handling, storage and lawful use.