Research chemicals only · Not for human use · DYOR

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#8 popular
Emerging human
Trending
Metabolic
Longevity

MOTS-c

aka Mitochondrial-derived peptide

16-aa mitochondrial peptide that mimics exercise & boosts metabolism

MW (Da)

2,174.61

Half-life

~2–4 hr

Sequence

MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR

Storage

Lyophilized 2–8 °C. Reconstituted refrigerate.

Research chemicals only. Not for human use. For research and educational purposes only. Always do your own due diligence and consult qualified professionals.

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Safety at a glance

Full safety details

Most-reported side effects

  • Transient fatigue
  • Injection site irritation

Don't use if…

  • Active cancer (cautious data)
  • Pregnancy

What it is

Encoded by mitochondrial 12S rRNA—a 'mitochondrial hormone' that acts as a metabolic regulator. Levels decline with age and rise with exercise.

Mechanism of action

Activates AMPK, restores AICAR/folate cycle flux, improves insulin sensitivity, regulates nuclear gene expression for stress resistance. Acts almost like an exercise mimetic at the cellular level.

Reported benefits

  • Improved insulin sensitivity and glucose disposal
  • Better exercise capacity and recovery in older animals
  • Investigational for metabolic syndrome, obesity and aging

Evidence notes

Strong rodent data + emerging small human PK studies (USC Cohen lab). Several CROs running early trials in 2025–2026.