The exercise-in-a-vial peptide — mitochondrial-derived, studied for metabolic benefits similar to physical exercise in preclinical models. 30+ peer-reviewed preclinical studies. 99%+ HPLC-verified purity. 3-lab independent COA on every batch.
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA type-c) is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the mitochondrial genome. Discovered in 2015 by Professor Changhan David Lee's laboratory at the University of Southern California, MOTS-c was the first mitochondrial-derived peptide shown to regulate metabolic homeostasis at a systemic level.
MOTS-c has been described as an "exercise mimetic" in preclinical research because it activates metabolic pathways similar to those triggered by physical exercise — including AMPK activation, folate-methionine cycle regulation, and skeletal muscle glucose uptake. Its effects on insulin sensitivity and metabolic homeostasis have made it one of the most-studied mitochondrial peptides in aging and metabolic research.
MOTS-c is classified as a research-use-only compound. It is not FDA-approved for any therapeutic indication. All references below describe preclinical (in vitro or animal model) research contexts, not human clinical outcomes.
MOTS-c activates AMPK and regulates the folate-methionine cycle — key pathways also triggered by physical exercise. Preclinical studies show it promotes skeletal muscle glucose uptake and metabolic adaptation without physical exertion in animal models.
As a systemically active mitochondrial-derived peptide, MOTS-c has been studied for its role in maintaining metabolic balance across multiple organ systems. Research examines its effects on energy expenditure, fat oxidation, and overall metabolic regulation.
Preclinical models of diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance have examined MOTS-c's effects on glucose disposal, insulin signaling, and metabolic syndrome-related endpoints. Studies suggest improved glucose homeostasis in treated animal models.
MOTS-c levels naturally decline with age. Research explores whether exogenous MOTS-c administration can restore youthful metabolic function in skeletal muscle, improve physical performance, and counteract age-related metabolic decline in preclinical aging models.
Research-grade MOTS-c with 3-lab COA verification is available at SMART MD Peptides in a 10mg formulation. Every batch is publicly verifiable at smartmdpeptides.com/verify.
MOTS-c activates AMPK and metabolic pathways that are also triggered by physical exercise. Preclinical studies demonstrate that MOTS-c administration produces metabolic adaptations — including increased glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and improved insulin sensitivity — that parallel the benefits of exercise, without requiring physical exertion.
99%+ HPLC-verified purity. Each batch is independently verified by 3 U.S. laboratories — HPLC for purity, mass spectrometry for molecular weight, and LAL endotoxin assay for safety.
Lyophilized (unreconstituted) MOTS-c should be stored at -20°C, protected from light and moisture. Once reconstituted, store at 2-8°C and use within the timeframe specified on your lot-specific documentation.
Check the COA before you buy. Compare it against any other supplier's documentation.