MOTS-c

Quickstart highlights

Dosing & reconstitution guide

Standard protocol (2 mL = 5 mg/mL)

A 10 mg vial dissolved in 2 mL bacteriostatic water gives a concentration of 5 mg/mL. Calculate your own dilution →

Reconstitution steps

1. Let the vial reach room temperature and wash your hands.
2. Disinfect both rubber stoppers with an alcohol swab.
3. Draw up 2 mL of bacteriostatic water.
4. Inject the water slowly down the glass wall, not directly onto the powder.
5. Swirl gently until clear — never shake.
6. Label the vial with date and concentration and refrigerate.

Supplies needed

• MOTS-c vial (10 mg)
• Bacteriostatic water
• Mixing syringe (1–3 mL) and U-100 insulin syringes
• Alcohol swabs and sharps container

Protocol overview

Dosing protocol in research

Values as described in literature and research protocols; not dosing advice.

Storage instructions

• Lyophilised (powder): cool, dry and dark; long-term at −20 °C.
• After reconstitution: refrigerator at 2–8 °C, use within ~4 weeks.
• Avoid repeated freezing and thawing.

Important notes

How this works

MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded directly by the mitochondrial genome rather than nuclear DNA. It functions as a hormone-like signaling molecule that regulates communication between mitochondria and the cell nucleus. Researchers study MOTS-c for its potential influence on metabolism and the body's response to physical exercise.

MOTS-c acts as a metabolic stress sensor that monitors energy balance. It inhibits the folate cycle, leading to the accumulation of AICAR and the subsequent activation of the AMPK enzyme. This activation stimulates cells to take up glucose more efficiently and oxidize fatty acids for energy. Additionally, the peptide can translocate to the cell nucleus to activate genes that protect against oxidative stress. Unlike many other hormones, the action of MOTS-c specifically targets the mitochondrial response during energy shortages. The half-life in the blood is very short, suggesting rapid tissue uptake.

Research into MOTS-c is currently in the preclinical stage, primarily using mouse models. In these studies, subjects showed improved insulin sensitivity and a twofold increase in treadmill endurance. No completed human clinical trials exist to confirm safety or effectiveness. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has included MOTS-c on the list of prohibited substances due to potential performance-enhancing properties. Key open questions focus on long-term effects in healthy human populations.

Potential benefits & side effects

Effects described in research

• Improved insulin sensitivity (mouse)
• Better physical performance in older animals
• Reduced fat gain

Common side effects

• Injection-site reaction
• Increased heart rate
• Post-injection fatigue

No serious adverse effects have been reported in animal studies, but data on human use remains limited. Researchers have noted occasional injection-site irritation or a temporary increase in heart rate. Because long-term human data is missing, the risks of chronic use are currently unknown.

Contraindications

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Active or prior cancer
• Under 18 years of age

Lifestyle factors

• Keep a log of doses, timing and observed effects.
• Adequate sleep, hydration and a stable diet.

Injection technique

• Choose a site with subcutaneous fat: abdomen (5 cm from the navel), thigh or back of upper arm.
• Disinfect, pinch a skin fold and insert at a 45–90° angle.
• Inject slowly, wait 5 seconds and withdraw.
• Rotate sites and use each needle once.

Recommended source

Quality varies widely between suppliers. Look for an independent HPLC/MS lab report per batch, purity ≥ 98% and clear storage and shipping conditions.

As a reference we use the MOTS-c from PeptideWinkel, which publishes lab reports per batch.

Frequently asked questions