Educational content only. Not medical advice. Consult a qualified physician.
Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c peptide
Anti-AgingResearch-only. Not FDA-approved. Active area of academic research. Human clinical trials are limited.

MOTS-c

Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c

MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene. Discovered in 2015 by Dr. Pinchas Cohen's lab at USC, it is the first known mitochondrial-encoded peptide that acts as a hormone. Research suggests it plays a role in metabolic homeostasis, exercise mimicry, and cellular stress resistance.
Reported Benefits

Potential Benefits

  • Research suggests activation of AMPK pathway, a key metabolic regulator
  • Animal studies indicate potential to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
  • May mimic some effects of exercise at the cellular level based on preclinical data
  • Studies suggest potential protective effects against age-related metabolic decline
  • Preclinical research indicates potential for skeletal muscle function support
Research Dosing

Recommended Starting Dose

5-10 mg subcutaneously per week

Based on published research protocols. Not a prescription.

Dosing Protocol

Common protocols involve 5-10 mg injected subcutaneously 1-3 times per week. Some practitioners recommend cycles of 4-8 weeks followed by a break. Dosing is not well-established due to limited human clinical data.

DOSING INFORMATION DISCLAIMER: Any dosing information, protocols, or ranges discussed on this site are drawn from published research studies and clinical literature. They are presented for educational reference only and must not be used as self-medication guidance.

Research Timeline

Expected Timeline

Phase 1

Effects on energy and exercise capacity are reported anecdotally within 2-4 weeks. Metabolic biomarker changes may take 4-8 weeks to measure.

Regulatory

Research Status

Research-only. Not FDA-approved. Active area of academic research. Human clinical trials are limited.

The regulatory status of peptides can change at any time. Verify current FDA classification and legal status in your jurisdiction before seeking medical consultation about this compound.

Safety Profile

Potential Side Effects

  • Very limited human safety data
  • Injection site reactions possible
  • Potential effects on blood sugar levels (caution in diabetics)
  • Long-term safety profile is unknown
  • Most data comes from animal models and in vitro studies
Related Research

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Medical Disclaimer

EDUCATIONAL CONTENT ONLY: The peptide information presented on this page is compiled from published scientific literature, peer-reviewed research, and publicly available clinical data. It is provided strictly for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, an endorsement of any specific peptide, or a recommendation for treatment. Many peptides discussed on this site have not received FDA approval for human therapeutic use. Some may be under active regulatory review or subject to restrictions on compounding under FDA Section 503A and 503B frameworks. The regulatory status of individual peptides can change at any time. Readers should verify the current legal status of any peptide in their jurisdiction before pursuing further information or consultation. If you are considering peptide therapy, seek guidance from a licensed physician or healthcare provider who specializes in peptide-based treatments and operates within applicable federal and state regulations.