Education

MOTS-c

What it is

MOTS-c is a short peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA. It has been studied for its role in cellular metabolism.

What the research says

  • A 2015 mouse study reported that MOTS-c affected metabolic regulation in mice [1].
  • A 2021 study reported that MOTS-c is induced by exercise and described effects on physical performance measures in mice [2].
  • A 2023 review summarized the preclinical evidence on MOTS-c [3].

Regulatory status

MOTS-c is research-stage. It is not FDA approved for any use, and compounded versions are not FDA approved. Where prescribed, compounded versions are prepared by state-licensed 503A compounding pharmacies.

Safety and side effects

We did not find published human safety or effectiveness studies of MOTS-c. Animal results cannot show what side effects occur in people. A licensed healthcare provider should review your history and medications first.

Is it right for you?

Only a licensed healthcare provider can decide whether any treatment is appropriate for you.

Frequently asked questions

Has MOTS-c been studied in people?

Most evidence is from animals and cells [1][2]. We did not find published human safety or effectiveness studies.

Is MOTS-c approved by FDA?

No. MOTS-c is not FDA approved and is research-stage. Compounded versions are not FDA approved.

Do I need a prescription for MOTS-c?

Yes. Prescription only, requires evaluation by a licensed provider. A provider decides whether it is appropriate for you.

Sources

  1. Lee C, et al. Cell Metab, 2015 (mouse study). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1550413115000613
  2. Reynolds JC, et al. Nat Commun, 2021 (mouse study). https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-20790-0
  3. Zheng Y, et al. MOTS-c: a promising mitochondrial-derived peptide for therapeutic exploitation. Front Endocrinol, 2023. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9905433/

MOTS-c content on this page is for education. Compounded medications are not FDA approved. Prescription only, requires evaluation by a licensed provider. Educational content only, not medical advice.

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