MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-c) is a naturally occurring mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded by mitochondrial DNA. It consists of 16 amino acids and has attracted scientific interest because of its proposed role in metabolic regulation, glucose utilization, cellular stress responses, and exercise-related physiology. Preclinical research suggests that MOTS-c may influence metabolic pathways such as AMPK, particularly in skeletal muscle.
Key Points
Full name: Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-c
Abbreviation: MOTS-c
Class: Mitochondrial-derived peptide
Peptide length: 16 amino acids
Primary research areas: Metabolic health, insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, exercise physiology, and cellular stress.
Proposed mechanism: Research suggests involvement in AMPK-related metabolic signaling and regulation of cellular energy homeostasis.
Metabolic research: Animal and laboratory studies have reported effects on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, but these findings should not be interpreted as established human therapeutic benefits.
Human research: Clinical investigation is ongoing. A current Phase 2a trial is evaluating MOTS-c for insulin sensitivity in adults with prediabetes and overweight/obesity.
Regulatory status: Investigational; not an approved treatment for diabetes, obesity, aging, or athletic performance.
Safety: Long-term safety and appropriate therapeutic dosing have not been established.
Specifications
Molecular type: Mitochondrial-encoded peptide
Length: 16 amino acids
Sequence:MRWQEMGYIFYPRKGT
Gene origin: Mitochondrial 12S rRNA region
Proposed biological role: Metabolic and cellular stress signaling
Research formulation: Synthetic MOTS-c is used in experimental research.
Clinical route under investigation: Subcutaneous injection in an ongoing Phase 2a study.
Clinical dosing: No generally approved therapeutic dose exists.
Important: MOTS-c remains an experimental peptide. Although preclinical findings are promising, claims that it reliably produces weight loss, improves athletic performance, reverses aging, or treats metabolic disease are not currently supported by sufficient clinical evidence. The ongoing Phase 2a study is specifically designed to determine whether MOTS-c can improve insulin sensitivity and to assess its safety in humans.
