MOTS-C is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that activates AMPK — the same metabolic pathway triggered by exercise. It's being called "exercise in a bottle" by researchers, and the science backs it up.
What is MOTS-C?
MOTS-C (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA type-C) is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA. It was discovered in 2015 by Dr. Changhan Lee at USC. Unlike most peptides, MOTS-C originates from the mitochondria, making it uniquely positioned to regulate cellular energy metabolism.
Key Benefits
- AMPK Activation: The master metabolic switch that improves insulin sensitivity, fat oxidation, and glucose uptake
- Insulin Sensitivity: Significantly improves glucose metabolism even in insulin-resistant models
- Mitochondrial Biogenesis: Stimulates creation of new mitochondria for improved cellular energy
- Exercise Enhancement: Improves exercise capacity and endurance performance
- Anti-Aging: Reverses age-related metabolic decline at the cellular level