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MOTS-C.
MOTS-c. A 16-amino acid peptide encoded in the mitochondrial genome that activates AMPK, the master metabolic switch your cells use to regulate energy, insulin sensitivity, and physical capacity. Your mitochondria already produce it. They just produce less of it every year.
*Clinician-prescribed. Ships from a licensed U.S. pharmacy.
The formulation.
| Peptide | MOTS-C (Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA Type-C) |
| Derived From | Mitochondrial-derived peptide |
| Concentration | 2 mg/ml |
| Format | Sterile injectable solution |
| Route | Subcutaneous |
| Pharmacy | Licensed U.S. Compounding Pharmacy |
MOTS-C is encoded inside mitochondrial DNA, not in the nucleus. It is the only known peptide that directly activates AMPK, the same energy-sensing pathway triggered by exercise. Skeletal muscle takes up MOTS-C and uses it to regulate glucose metabolism independently of insulin. The research calls it an exercise mimetic because the metabolic signature it produces overlaps with what happens during sustained physical activity. The difference is that MOTS-C reaches cells that have stopped responding to the exercise signal on their own.
The mechanism
The Metabolic Switch Your Mitochondria Lost.
MOTS-c inhibits the folate cycle, causing intracellular AICAR to accumulate. AICAR directly activates AMPK, the enzyme that functions as the cell's master energy sensor. When AMPK fires, the cell shifts to fuel-burning mode: increased glucose uptake via GLUT4, enhanced fatty acid oxidation, new mitochondria built through biogenesis, energy-wasting processes suppressed.
This is pharmacological activation of the same pathway that exercise triggers. MOTS-c engages it at the molecular level. Under metabolic stress, MOTS-c goes further: it translocates from the mitochondria to the nucleus, directly regulating gene expression to adapt cellular metabolism to demand.
Complete your intake
No appointments. No waiting rooms.
Your prescription ships
Compounded by a licensed U.S. pharmacy. Cold-shipped.
Run the course
Follow your provider's dosing schedule.
Safety
What to expect+
The most common side effects are mild injection site irritation and transient flushing.
MOTS-C is a naturally occurring peptide encoded in the human mitochondrial genome, contributing to a favorable tolerability profile.
The first-in-human trial (2024) confirmed safety and bioactivity with no significant adverse events reported.
Who should not use this+
Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not use if you have active cancer, chronic kidney disease, or untreated cardiovascular conditions.
Do not use if you are hypersensitive to peptide-based medications.
Not intended for individuals under 18.
Should be cycled or used under medical supervision, especially long-term.
Regulatory context+
MOTS-C is a compounded formulation prepared under section 503A in a licensed U.S. compounding pharmacy. It requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Frequently asked
What is MOTS-C?+
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in the mitochondrial genome, discovered in 2015. It was the second mitochondrial-derived peptide ever identified, and its discovery showed that mitochondria act as signaling organs, not just power plants. It's studied for its role in metabolism.
How does MOTS-C work?+
It activates AMPK, the cell's master energy sensor, through the folate-AICAR pathway. When AMPK fires, cells increase glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation, build new mitochondria, and dial down energy-consuming processes. It's the same pathway that exercise and caloric restriction activate, and under stress MOTS-c can even move to the nucleus to help regulate gene expression.
What can I expect from MOTS-C?+
Many people turn to it for metabolic support, and reports include steadier energy, better exercise capacity, and faster recovery. It may also support insulin-sensitivity markers over a few weeks. Since your natural production declines with age, it's used to help restore that signal, though results vary.
Are there any side effects?+
The most common side effects are mild injection site irritation and transient flushing. MOTS-c is a naturally occurring peptide encoded in your own mitochondrial genome, which contributes to its favorable tolerability. The first-in-human trial in 2024 confirmed safety and bioactivity, and there weren't any significant adverse events reported.
How is MOTS-C made and shipped?+
It starts with a short online medical intake, and if it's a fit, a licensed U.S. provider writes the prescription. From there it's compounded at a licensed 503A pharmacy and batch tested by a third party for sterility and potency. Then it's shipped cold-packed right to your door.
What's the best way to buy MOTS-C?+
You've got two options. You can buy a one-time single vial, or you can go with the Build Your Stack subscription, which lets you mix and match the compounds in your monthly stack, starting at $189 per month. For ongoing use the stack is the better value, and you can pause, skip, or cancel anytime.
A short course of work. Your cells carry it from there.
$220.00 · Clinician-prescribed · Ships from a licensed U.S. pharmacyThese statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Prescription products require an online consultation with a licensed provider who will determine if a prescription is appropriate.