Disclaimer
CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.
MOTS-c
Also known as: Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c, MOTS-c peptide
MOTS-c is a 16-amino acid mitochondria-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA. Discovered in 2015 by Changhan David Lee's group at USC, it functions as a mitochondrial-encoded hormone (mitokine) that regulates metabolic homeostasis. It is the first mitochondrial-encoded peptide shown to translocate to the nucleus and regulate nuclear gene expression. One small human trial has been conducted in obese individuals.
Risk Level
Medium RiskDifficulty
Advanced| Class | Peptide |
| Category | Underground Peptides |
Mechanism of Action
Activates AMPK pathway, increases glucose uptake, enhances fatty acid oxidation, and improves insulin sensitivity. Under metabolic stress, MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus where it interacts with ARE-containing promoters to regulate antioxidant and metabolic gene expression. Also activates the folate-methionine cycle, influencing one-carbon metabolism.
Dosing Research
One human trial used 5 mg/day subcutaneously for 14 days in obese postmenopausal women. Underground protocols typically use 5-10 mg subcutaneously 2-3 times weekly. Some users cycle 4 weeks on/4 weeks off. The peptide requires injection as it is not orally bioavailable.
Side Effects & Risks
The single human trial reported good tolerability with no serious adverse events. Injection site reactions and mild gastrointestinal discomfort were noted. Theoretical risks include hypoglycemia in combination with antidiabetic medications. Long-term safety data is absent.
Research Studies
Related compounds
Semaglutide
PeptideSemaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic) and chronic weight management (Wegovy). Clinical trials demonstrated average weight loss of 15-17% of body weight. It has become one of the most widely discussed medications in modern weight management.
Tirzepatide
PeptideTirzepatide is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and obesity (Zepbound). It has demonstrated unprecedented weight loss efficacy in clinical trials, with participants losing up to 20-25% of body weight. It represents the cutting edge of pharmaceutical weight management.
Liraglutide
PeptideLiraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Victoza, 1.8 mg) and obesity (Saxenda, 3.0 mg). It was the first GLP-1 agonist approved specifically for weight management. While effective, it has been largely superseded by semaglutide and tirzepatide in terms of weight loss efficacy.
PT-141
PeptidePT-141 (bremelanotide) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist that was FDA-approved in 2019 as Vyleesi for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors, it acts centrally through the melanocortin system to increase sexual desire rather than just facilitating erection mechanics. It is the only FDA-approved on-demand treatment targeting central sexual arousal pathways.
Disclaimer
CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.