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MOTS-c

Metabolism, fitness, aging

Called exercise in a molecule. Your mitochondria make this naturally and it mimics working out.

In Plain English

Your body releases MOTS-c when you exercise. It helps burn fat and improve insulin sensitivity — even without the gym.

C

At a glance

Impressive in mice. The human version failed its trial. Evidence grade C on an A-to-D scale.

HOW IT IS TAKEN
Under the skin
HOW OFTEN
2 to 3 times a week
HOW LONG
4 to 6 weeks
TESTED SPORT
Not banned

Reported practice from trials and the community, not a recommendation for anyone.

What Researchers Have Studied It For

+Exercise mimetic effects
+Blood sugar regulation
+Fat metabolism
+Physical performance
+Metabolic protection

Studied for

Anti-Aging
Molecular Weight
2175 Da
Half-Life
Minutes (effects via gene expression)
Source
16 amino acids from mitochondrial DNA
Storage
Keep frozen as powder. Refrigerate once mixed.
Category
Longevity

Published Research

MOTS-c regulates physical decline
Nat Commun (2020)

Common questions about MOTS-c

What is MOTS-c used for?

Researchers have studied MOTS-c for exercise mimetic effects, blood sugar regulation, fat metabolism, and more. In plain terms: Your body releases MOTS-c when you exercise. It helps burn fat and improve insulin sensitivity — even without the gym.

Is MOTS-c FDA-approved?

No. MOTS-c is not approved for human use anywhere. It is sold as a research chemical, which means no manufacturing standard, no batch recall and no one to report a problem to. The only quality control is the buyer's own.

How is MOTS-c usually taken?

The commonly reported pattern is under the skin, 2 to 3 times a week, for 4 to 6 weeks. That describes reported practice from trials and the community. It is not a recommendation for anyone, and several of these compounds interact with common medications.

How strong is the evidence for MOTS-c?

Grade C on this site's A-to-D scale. C means tested only in animals or cells, so everything about human use is an educated guess. Impressive in mice. The human version failed its trial.

Is MOTS-c banned in drug-tested sport?

It is not specifically listed by the World Anti-Doping Agency, but tested athletes should check the current list and their federation's rules, since related compounds and blends often are.

How long does MOTS-c stay in the body?

The half-life, the time for half a dose to leave the body, is about Minutes (effects via gene expression). A short half-life means it wears off fast and is taken more often; a long one means once a week can be enough. Stored as a dry powder it keeps for months in the fridge; once mixed with water it is used within a few weeks.

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Go deeper on MOTS-c in The Peptide Course
How people commonly use it, what they notice, side effects, who stays away, and how good the evidence really is. Plus how to buy a vial that is actually MOTS-c, and how to mix it. Six lessons are free.
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Research-use disclaimer — MOTS-c is referenced here for research education only. It is not approved by the FDA for human consumption, treatment, cure, or diagnosis of any condition. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Consult a licensed physician for anything related to your health.