What it is
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide studied for metabolic signaling.
Evidence boundary
Preclinical / limited human evidence.
Trial evidence
- PMID 39160573 — The correlation between mitochondrial derived peptide (MDP) and metabolic states: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
- PMID 40715951 — Mitochondrial-Derived Peptides: Implication in the Therapy of Neurodegenerative Diseases.
- PMID 42324588 — Mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c activates metabolic signaling but blunts reparative function in human mesenchymal stromal cells.
- PMID 42278864 — Reduced Circulating MOTS-c Levels in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Reflect Integrated Autoimmune and Metabolic Dysregulation: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Preparation and measurement
Reconstitution: 10 mg vial + 2 mL BAC = 5 mg/mL.
Concentration matches.
Reference schedule
| Phase | Dose | Draw / measure | Frequency | Weekly total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–2 (titration) | 200 mcg | 4 U (0.04 mL) | Once daily | 1.4 mg/week |
| Weeks 3–4 | 400 mcg | 8 U (0.08 mL) | Once daily | 2.8 mg/week |
| Weeks 5–6 | 600 mcg | 12 U (0.12 mL) | Once daily | 4.2 mg/week |
| Weeks 7–8 | 800 mcg | 16 U (0.16 mL) | Once daily | 5.6 mg/week |
| Weeks 9–10+ (target) | 1 mg | 20 U (0.20 mL) | Once daily | 7 mg/week |
Weeks 1–2 (titration)
- Dose
- 200 mcg
- Draw / measure
- 4 U (0.04 mL)
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Weekly total
- 1.4 mg/week
Weeks 3–4
- Dose
- 400 mcg
- Draw / measure
- 8 U (0.08 mL)
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Weekly total
- 2.8 mg/week
Weeks 5–6
- Dose
- 600 mcg
- Draw / measure
- 12 U (0.12 mL)
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Weekly total
- 4.2 mg/week
Weeks 7–8
- Dose
- 800 mcg
- Draw / measure
- 16 U (0.16 mL)
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Weekly total
- 5.6 mg/week
Weeks 9–10+ (target)
- Dose
- 1 mg
- Draw / measure
- 20 U (0.20 mL)
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Weekly total
- 7 mg/week
Weekly totals apply only during the active phase.
Titration rules
-
Daily titration approach (subcutaneous):
-
Weeks 1–2 (titration): 200 mcg/day. Once daily; assess tolerability.
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Weeks 3–4: 400 mcg/day. First step up.
-
Weeks 5–6: 600 mcg/day. Second step up.
-
Weeks 7–8: 800 mcg/day. Third step up.
-
Weeks 9–10+ (target): 1000 mcg (1 mg) /day. Target maintenance.
-
Cycle structure: 4–8 weeks on, 2–4 weeks off. Mitochondrial biogenesis adaptations carry into the off-cycle window.
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Timing: Morning post-fasted dosing aligns with the natural exercise-window mimic. Pre-cardio dosing is anecdotally favored.
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Metabolic signaling in the literature
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Glucose handling and insulin sensitivity signals
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Local injection tolerance
Practical rules
- Pair with regular exercise.
- Keep sleep and protein intake solid.
- Rotate injection sites.