MOTS-c
ResearchMitochondrial ORF of 12S rRNA-c
- Category
- Longevity & Anti-Aging
- Aliases
- Mitochondrial peptide MOTS-c
- Administration
- Subcutaneous injection
Documented benefits
Tier 1 · Peer-reviewed / regulatoryBenefit categories
Anti-aging
As a mitochondrial-derived peptide, its influence on cellular energy metabolism is studied as a driver of healthy aging.
AMPK activation
Its defining mechanism — directly activating AMPK, the cell's master energy-sensing switch, under metabolic stress.
Exercise mimetic
Activates the same AMPK pathway normally triggered by physical exercise, without requiring the exercise itself.
Fat oxidation
AMPK activation increases the rate at which cells burn fat for fuel.
Improved insulin sensitivity
Upregulates GLUT4 transporters, helping muscle cells pull glucose from the blood more efficiently.
Longevity
Extended lifespan in mouse studies by activating cellular stress-response pathways tied to aging.
Mitochondrial support
Encoded within mitochondrial DNA itself, it directly signals cells to build more mitochondria.