MOTS-c
Mitochondrial-Derived Signaling Peptide
Best For
Metabolic optimization, mitochondrial support, exercise recovery and performance
16aa
Amino acid peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA
AMPK
Master metabolic switch activated by MOTS-c
40%
Improvement in glucose tolerance in preclinical models
How It Works
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene — one of the first identified mitochondrial-derived peptides with systemic signaling activity. It activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue, mimicking the metabolic effects of exercise by enhancing glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation. MOTS-c also regulates the folate-methionine cycle, shifting cellular metabolism toward improved NAD+ biosynthesis and reducing inflammatory cytokine expression. Research from the Lee Lab at USC has demonstrated that MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus under metabolic stress, directly regulating gene expression related to cellular resilience.
Key Research Areas
Exercise Mimetic
Activates AMPK pathways that mirror the metabolic benefits of physical exercise
Insulin Sensitivity
Improves glucose uptake in skeletal muscle independent of insulin signaling
Mitochondrial Function
Enhances NAD+ biosynthesis and mitochondrial oxidative capacity
Metabolic Inflammation
Reduces TNF-alpha and IL-6 expression in adipose and muscle tissue
Research Highlights
- First mitochondrial-derived peptide shown to translocate to the nucleus and regulate gene expression
- Identified by the Lee Lab at USC — a leading center for mitochondrial peptide research
Featured Research
Formulation Notes
Common concentrations referenced in published clinical studies:
[MS10]10mg[MS40]40mgCategory
NAD+ is the most critical coenzyme in metabolism — powering every cell's energy and essential for DNA repair. By 50, NAD...
Explore Recharge category →Educational Content. This compound profile is for informational purposes only. Not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Related Compounds
NAD+
Longevity Coenzyme
- Powers cellular energy, sirtuin activation, DNA repair
- ~50% decline by age 50 — restoration supports all function
Reference Codes
[NJ500]500mgSS-31 (Elamipretide)
Mitochondrial Membrane Protector
- One of the only peptides that targets mitochondrial membranes directly
- Reduces ROS at the source rather than scavenging downstream free radicals
Reference Codes
[2S10]10mg[2S50]50mgEpitalon (Epithalon)
Telomerase Activator Tetrapeptide
- Backed by over two decades of research from the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation
- One of the few compounds shown to activate telomerase in human somatic cells
Reference Codes
[ET10]10mg[ET50]50mgEvidence reviewed: March 2026