Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 16 amino acids · Sonstiges
Sequence
MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid (shown truncated).
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in the mitochondrial genome — one of few known peptides of mitochondrial origin.
- It is transcribed and translated from the 12S ribosomal RNA gene.
- In preclinical studies, MOTS-c has been described as circulating in cells and in the blood, able to translocate to the cell nucleus and there modulate gene expression programmes that regulate metabolic adaptation.
- A postulated mechanism is activation of the AMPK signalling pathway (AMP-activated protein kinase) — a central regulator of energy metabolism.
- Blood MOTS-c levels decline with age, which has generated interest for longevity research.
Research status
- MOTS-c was discovered in 2015 by Chang Lee et al. at USC and is a comparatively young research substance.
- Animal models (mice) showed improved insulin sensitivity, reduced age-associated weight gain and extended lifespan under a high-fat diet with MOTS-c administration.
- Initial observational studies in humans examined MOTS-c plasma levels in relation to insulin resistance and aging, without an interventional character.
- Clinical interventional studies in humans do not exist.
- The substance is intensively discussed in longevity communities, but the scientific basis for human use is purely preclinical.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01No safety profile in humans available — exclusively preclinical data
- 02Unknown pharmacokinetics in humans
- 03AMPK activation has systemic effects on energy and cell-growth regulation; adverse effects cannot be ruled out
- 04Product quality cannot be verified from uncontrolled commercial sources
- 05No quality standards for manufacture or storage from non-pharmaceutical suppliers
Frequently asked questions
What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in the mitochondrial genome — one of few known peptides of mitochondrial origin.
What type of peptide is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c belongs to the Other class.
Is MOTS-c legal in Germany?
The regulatory status of MOTS-c in Germany is not clearly classified.
Where can I buy MOTS-c?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. MOTS-c is "unclassified" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is MOTS-c banned in sport (WADA)?
MOTS-c is currently not on the WADA Prohibited List.
What are the known risks of MOTS-c?
Documented risks include: No safety profile in humans available — exclusively preclinical data; Unknown pharmacokinetics in humans. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is MOTS-c?
The evidence is classified as “preclinical”. 3 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of MOTS-c?
MOTS-c has a molar mass of about 2174.6 Da.
Which peptides are related to MOTS-c?
Closely related entries: Epithalon. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Related entries
Legal status
Germany
unclassifiedAustria
unclassifiedSwitzerland
unclassifiedEU
unclassifiedUSA
not approvedCanada
not approvedLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 3 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature. PubChem CID 146675088
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 1 May 2026
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
Anzeige
Reserviert für sorgfältig ausgewählte Partner — Telemedizin, Diagnostik, legale topische Anwendungen.