MOTS-c
Also known as: Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA-c
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that acts as a mitochondrial signaling molecule. It regulates metabolic homeostasis and has been called an 'exercise mimetic' due to its effects on metabolism and exercise capacity.
Beginner Basics
Plain-English guide to MOTS-c
What it does
MOTS-c is a signaling molecule that comes from your mitochondria (the energy factories in your cells). Researchers study it because it mimics the effects of exercise by improving how your body uses energy, making your muscles work better, and helping your body handle sugar more efficiently.
Typical dose
Researchers commonly use 5-10 mg injected under the skin or into muscle, 2-3 times per week.
When to inject
Best used before a workout or in the morning; timing around exercise may enhance the effects researchers are studying.
Storage
Keep the dry powder in the refrigerator. Once you mix it with liquid, store it in the fridge and use it within a few weeks.
First-timer tip
Start at the lower end of the dose range (5 mg) to see how your body responds before increasing, and try injecting it before your workout to match how researchers typically study it.
On This Page
Research Status
Research compound with growing scientific interest
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
Typically resolve within 1-2 hours. Minimize by rotating injection sites, allowing solution to reach room temperature, and using proper injection technique. Apply ice if needed.
May occur within 1-2 hours of injection. Usually self-resolving. Ensure adequate hydration and consider timing injection away from high-stress periods.
Reported in some users, particularly with higher doses. Take with food if it occurs. Typically resolves within a few hours.
May occur immediately after injection. Sit or lie down for 5-10 minutes if this occurs. Ensure adequate hydration.
Consistent with MOTS-c's metabolic activation. Usually brief and self-resolving. Not a sign of infection if localized to injection site.
Preventable through strict site rotation. Use a systematic rotation schedule and maintain at least 1 inch between injection points. If lipodystrophy develops, discontinue injections in that area for 4-8 weeks.
Seek immediate medical attention if any signs of anaphylaxis occur. Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider. May indicate sensitivity to the peptide or reconstitution components.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 5-10 mg |
Frequency, timing and route - members only | |
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution Guide
Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | approximately 1,900 Da |
| Half-life | Estimated 10-20 minutes in circulation; effects persist longer due to downstream signaling activation |
| Sequence | Members only |
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA-c) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that functions as a signaling molecule between mitochondria and the nucleus. It enhances mitochondrial biogenesis, improves insulin sensitivity, and increases cellular energy expenditure by activating AMPK and related metabolic pathways. MOTS-c is often referred to as an 'exercise mimetic' because it produces metabolic and performance benefits similar to physical exercise, including improved glucose metabolism, enhanced aerobic capacity, and increased fat oxidation.
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View all peptidesResearch Use Only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. MOTS-c is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.