MOTS-c
EmergingAlso known as: mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c
A mitochondria-derived peptide researched for metabolic regulation and exercise-related stress responses. Still early relative to incretin drugs, but frequently searched in biohacking circles.
Mechanism (plain language)
Encoded in mitochondrial DNA; studied for effects on AMPK-related pathways, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic homeostasis in preclinical models.
What research suggests
Animal and cellular studies suggest metabolic benefits under stress or high-fat diet conditions. Human clinical literature is limited compared with GLP-1 class drugs.
Uncertainties & risks
Translational gap from mice to humans is large. Research-chemical quality control is a practical risk. Longevity and body-composition claims online often exceed published evidence.
STACKD study summaries
Start with our in-house roundups—plain-language synthesis of the research, with primary sources cited at the bottom of each.
Primary sources
Secondary citations for verification. Prefer the STACKD summary above for context before opening these.
- The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance
2015 · animal
Foundational preclinical paper linking MOTS-c to metabolic homeostasis.