MITOCHONDRIAL PEPTIDE

# MOTS-c: The Exercise Mimetic

A naturally occurring peptide that delivers exercise-like metabolic benefits - improving insulin sensitivity and fighting age-related decline

## What is MOTS-c?

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-c) is a 16-amino acid peptide naturally produced by your mitochondria. Unlike most proteins encoded by nuclear DNA, MOTS-c comes directly from mitochondrial DNA - making it part of a special class called mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs).

What makes MOTS-c remarkable is its ability to mimic the metabolic benefits of exercise. It acts as a signaling molecule between your mitochondria and the rest of your body, regulating metabolism, energy production, and how your cells respond to stress.

#### Typical Dose

5-10mg, 2-3x/week

#### Administration

Subcutaneous or Nasal

#### Best Timing

AM or Post-Workout

#### Research Stage

Phase I Complete (2024)

## How MOTS-c Works

MOTS-c functions as an "exercise mimetic" - meaning it triggers many of the same metabolic pathways that get activated when you exercise. Here's how it works:

- Activates AMPK Pathway AMPK is your body's master energy sensor. When activated, it improves glucose uptake, increases fat burning, and enhances mitochondrial function. Exercise naturally activates AMPK - and so does MOTS-c.
- Improves Insulin Sensitivity MOTS-c enhances how your muscles respond to insulin, allowing better glucose uptake. This is particularly valuable for metabolic health and preventing age-related insulin resistance.
- Boosts Mitochondrial Function As a mitochondrial peptide, MOTS-c helps optimise the very organelles that produce it - improving energy production at the cellular level.
- Reduces Metabolic Stress MOTS-c helps cells cope with metabolic challenges, protecting against the dysfunction that accumulates with age.

## Key Benefits

### Metabolic Health

The primary benefit of MOTS-c is metabolic improvement. Research shows it can reduce insulin resistance, improve glucose metabolism, and help prevent obesity - even without changes to diet or exercise. In animal studies, MOTS-c prevented age-related weight gain and metabolic dysfunction.

### Exercise Enhancement

While MOTS-c isn't a replacement for exercise, it may enhance its benefits. Studies show increased muscle glucose uptake and improved physical capacity. Some researchers describe it as making exercise "more effective" at the cellular level.

### Healthy Aging

MOTS-c levels naturally decline with age - and this decline correlates with metabolic problems. Restoring MOTS-c may help counteract age-related metabolic decline, supporting healthier aging from the cellular level up.

### The Exercise Connection

Interestingly, exercise itself increases MOTS-c levels. This creates a positive feedback loop - exercise boosts MOTS-c, and MOTS-c enhances exercise benefits. For those who can't exercise due to injury or illness, MOTS-c supplementation may provide some of the metabolic benefits they're missing.

## What the Research Shows

MOTS-c research has progressed from cell studies to animals to early human trials:

- Cell Studies: MOTS-c activates AMPK and improves glucose uptake in muscle cells
- Mouse Studies: Prevented diet-induced obesity and age-related insulin resistance
- Human Correlation: People with higher natural MOTS-c levels show better metabolic health
- Phase I Trials: Completed in 2024, establishing initial safety and dosing parameters

The research trajectory is promising. While we're still in early stages of human data, the mechanism is well-understood and the animal data is compelling.

## Practical Considerations

### Dosing Protocol

Based on current research and clinical protocols, typical dosing is 5-10mg administered 2-3 times per week. It can be taken via subcutaneous injection or nasal spray. Many users prefer morning administration or post-workout to align with natural metabolic rhythms.

### What to Expect

Users commonly report improved energy levels and better exercise recovery within the first few weeks. Metabolic improvements (like better fasting glucose) may take 4-8 weeks to become measurable. MOTS-c works gradually by improving cellular function rather than providing an immediate stimulant effect.

### Cost Considerations

MOTS-c typically costs $80-$150 per month depending on dosing frequency and source. As a research peptide, it's available from specialised peptide suppliers rather than mainstream supplement retailers.

#### Important Note

MOTS-c is currently classified as a research peptide. While Phase I safety trials have been completed, it's not yet approved as a therapeutic. Anyone considering MOTS-c should consult with a healthcare provider familiar with peptide therapies and source from reputable suppliers with third-party testing.

## The Bottom Line

MOTS-c represents an exciting frontier in longevity science. As a naturally occurring peptide that mimics exercise benefits, it offers a unique approach to metabolic health - particularly for aging individuals experiencing declining metabolic function.

While still in the research phase, the science is solid: MOTS-c activates the same pathways as exercise, improves insulin sensitivity, and may help counteract age-related metabolic decline. As human trials progress, we'll learn more about optimal dosing and long-term benefits.

For those interested in cutting-edge longevity interventions, MOTS-c is one to watch - and for some, one to explore under proper medical guidance.