For Research Use Only – Not for Human Consumption. For Research Use Only. Not for Human Consumption. Not for diagnostic, therapeutic or medical use. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
MOTS-c: The Mitochondrial Peptide Researchers Are Watching
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Key points
- A 16-amino-acid peptide made from the 12S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA.
- Evidence is animal studies plus human observational data; controlled human trials are limited.
- Not FDA-approved for any use.
What it is
MOTS-c is a short peptide of 16 amino acids that is encoded by mitochondrial DNA, the small genome inside our cells' power plants. That makes it one of the so-called mitochondrial-derived peptides. It weighs about 2,175 daltons.
How researchers study it
The literature looks at metabolic stress, exercise biology and energy balance, often through signaling linked to AMPK, a cellular energy sensor. Insulin-sensitivity assays are another common setting.
What the evidence shows
Findings so far come from animal studies and from human observational data, where levels are measured but nothing is given and compared against a control. The mechanism is still being mapped, and controlled human trials are limited.
Regulatory status
MOTS-c is not FDA-approved for any use. A July 2026 FDA advisory panel voted favorably on a compounding question; the vote is non-binding.
