MOTS-c
Also known as Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c
A small peptide made by your mitochondria (your cells' power plants). Studied for metabolism and exercise.
Quick facts
- Status
- Not an approved medicine
- Evidence
- Preclinical (mainly mouse studies)
- Taken as
- Injection under the skin
- Common sizes
- 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg
- Category
- Mitochondrial peptide · metabolism (experimental)
How it works
In animals it helps muscles use sugar better and improves insulin sensitivity.
What people use it for
- Fat loss and metabolism
- Exercise capacity
- Healthy ageing
What the research shows
- Promising results in mice.
- Human studies are only just starting.
Side effects & risks
- Unknown in humans
- Injection-site reactions
- Product quality is not checked
Is it legal?
Not an approved medicine in the EU, UK or US. In most countries it is illegal to sell it for use in people. Products labelled "research use only" are not checked for quality or purity.
Storage & safe handling
- Mix with bacteriostatic water: let it run slowly down the inside of the vial and swirl gently — never shake.
- Store the mixed vial in the fridge and follow the use-by period on the label.
- Wipe the vial top with alcohol and use a new sterile needle and syringe every time.
- Rotate injection sites so the same spot is not used again and again.
- Put used needles in a sharps container, not the household bin.
- Get medical help for redness that spreads, fever, swelling or trouble breathing.
Open in PepTimerTrack your protocol, calculate how much to draw and get reminders — free.Open in PepTimer
Sources: Lee C et al., "The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance", Cell Metab 2015.
Last updated 12 October 2026. Information — not medical advice. PepTimer does not replace a doctor. Many peptides are not approved medicines in the EU, UK or US. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing or stopping any treatment.
Last updated 12 October 2026. Information — not medical advice. PepTimer does not replace a doctor. Many peptides are not approved medicines in the EU, UK or US. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing or stopping any treatment.