Peptides›Metabolic›MOTS-c

MOTS-c

/ 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA gene

TIER 3 · PreclinicalN = 0 · TESTING PENDINGLAST REVIEW 2026·04·20

ALIAS · Mitochondrial-derived peptide 12-47

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Research use onlyAny dose figures below describe what specific cited studies used, reported factually. Nothing on this page is guidance for human use.READ FIRST →

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§ A · Identity

Primary sequence— sequence not captured —

MW · —CLASS · 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA geneCATEGORY · Metabolic

Growing preclinical literature on metabolic benefits and exercise-mimetic effects. No pivotal human trials published. Popular in peptide-market channels ahead of evidence.

§ B · Mechanism of action

MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA gene. It is thought to regulate metabolic homeostasis through AMPK activation, enhance insulin sensitivity, and modulate adipose tissue metabolism. Translocation to the nucleus has been reported, suggesting direct transcriptional effects.

§ C · Human clinical evidence

Preclinical rodent evidence is substantial, with consistent reports of improved insulin sensitivity and exercise-mimetic effects. Human plasma MOTS-c levels have been studied as biomarkers. No therapeutic human trials of exogenous MOTS-c have been published.

§ H · Regulatory status

Regulatory status

FDA status:: Not FDA-approved

§ I · Notable gaps and controversies

MOTS-c is a legitimate academic research target in mitochondrial-derived peptide biology, but the specific body-composition and longevity claims circulating in peptide-market channels outrun the available human evidence.