METABOLIC · PEPTIDE
What is MOTS-c?
Medically reviewed by the G1 Peptides clinical team · Updated October 1, 2026
THE SHORT ANSWER
MOTS-c is a peptide of 16 amino acids encoded by mitochondrial DNA, identified in 2015. It is studied for metabolism: insulin sensitivity, exercise capacity and age-related metabolic decline.
MOTS-c at a glance
- Type
- Peptide
- Also known as
- Mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c
- Mechanism
- Mitochondrial-derived peptide; AMPK activation
- Status
- Compounded (Rx)
- Half-life
- Limited human data
- Route
- Subcutaneous
- Dosing range in the literature
- 2.5–10 mg per dose
- Onset
- 2–4 weeks
- Storage
- Refrigerated (2–8 °C); use within the pharmacy beyond-use date
How MOTS-c works
It activates AMPK, an enzyme that acts as a cellular fuel gauge, which increases glucose uptake and fat burning. Its level rises with exercise, and it is sometimes described as an exercise-mimicking signal.
What MOTS-c is studied for
- Metabolic health
- Insulin sensitivity
- Exercise performance
Mouse studies show protection against diet-induced obesity and improved physical performance in older animals. Human data is limited to early studies.
Being studied for something is not proof that it works. Results in individuals vary.
MOTS-c dosing
Published protocols describe 2.5–10 mg per dose, 2–3× weekly, given subcutaneous. Onset is typically reported at 2–4 weeks.
These figures are context from the literature, not instructions. A licensed provider sets the dose and schedule for each patient.
MOTS-c side effects and risks
- Injection-site reactions
- Limited human trial data
Tell your provider about every medication and condition before starting, and report anything unexpected. See peptide side effects and safety and who should not use peptides.
Is MOTS-c FDA approved?
Not FDA-approved.
Approval and trial status change. This page was last reviewed on October 1, 2026.
MOTS-c at G1 Peptides
G1 Peptides supplies MOTS-c as vials (10 mg) and in pens (Mitoforge). Prescription products ship only after a licensed provider has reviewed the order.
MOTS-c questions
- What is MOTS-c?
- MOTS-c is a peptide of 16 amino acids encoded by mitochondrial DNA, identified in 2015. It is studied for metabolism: insulin sensitivity, exercise capacity and age-related metabolic decline.
- What is MOTS-c used for?
- MOTS-c is studied for metabolic health, insulin sensitivity, and exercise performance. Mouse studies show protection against diet-induced obesity and improved physical performance in older animals. Human data is limited to early studies.
- How does MOTS-c work?
- It activates AMPK, an enzyme that acts as a cellular fuel gauge, which increases glucose uptake and fat burning. Its level rises with exercise, and it is sometimes described as an exercise-mimicking signal.
- Is MOTS-c FDA approved?
- Not FDA-approved.
- What is the typical MOTS-c dosage?
- Published protocols describe 2.5–10 mg per dose, given subcutaneous. This is context from the literature, not a recommendation: a licensed provider sets the dose.
- What are the side effects of MOTS-c?
- Risks noted for MOTS-c include injection-site reactions and limited human trial data. Tell your provider about your medications and conditions before starting.
- What is the half-life of MOTS-c?
- The reported half-life is limited human data. Onset is typically reported at 2–4 weeks.
- How should MOTS-c be stored?
- Refrigerated (2–8 °C); use within the pharmacy beyond-use date.
For educational purposes only, and not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Nothing on this page is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Use any compound only under the guidance of a licensed provider.