MOTS-C — encoded in your mitochondria.
MOTS-C (Mitochondrial Open reading frame of the twelve S rRNA type-c) is a peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA itself — discovered in 2015. It activates AMPK, improves insulin sensitivity, and supports mitochondrial function. It is one of the few peptides in this category with a natural endogenous origin.
Why mitochondrial origin matters
MOTS-C is unusual in that it is not synthesised by nuclear genes but encoded within mitochondrial DNA. It is secreted from mitochondria in response to metabolic stress and acts as a retrograde signal to the nucleus, regulating nuclear gene expression. Serum MOTS-C levels decline with age in humans, making it an interesting longevity research target.
Molecular information
Pharmacokinetics
Compare MOTS-C prices across EU suppliers
COA-verified · Multiple EU vendors · Updated monthly
Frequently asked questions
What is MOTS-c? ▾
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA (12S rRNA) rather than by nuclear genes. It is secreted under metabolic stress and acts as a retrograde signal to the nucleus, activating AMPK.
Why does its mitochondrial origin matter? ▾
Unlike most peptides it is encoded in mitochondrial DNA and signals from the mitochondria to the nucleus to regulate gene expression. Serum levels decline with age, making it a longevity research target.
What does the research show? ▾
There is strong animal evidence for AMPK activation and improved insulin sensitivity, including type 2 diabetes models, moderate human correlation of declining serum MOTS-c with age, and limited animal data suggesting exercise-mimetic effects.
Is MOTS-c an exercise mimetic? ▾
Animal data suggest it mimics some beneficial effects of exercise training, but human trial data are pending, so this remains preliminary.
Does MOTS-c decline with age? ▾
Human studies show serum MOTS-c declining with age and correlating with metabolic health markers, though this is correlational and not established as causal.
Is MOTS-c legal in the EU? ▾
It is sold as a research compound for laboratory use only.