Overview
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide, not a conventional secretagogue or growth factor. Encoded within mitochondrial 12S rRNA, it has become a major research focus in metabolism, exercise biology, and healthy aging. In animals it behaves like an exercise-responsive metabolic regulator.
Mechanism
Preclinical literature describes MOTS-c as a regulator of glucose handling, insulin sensitivity, metabolic flexibility, and physical performance, with strong links to AMPK-related signaling and exercise adaptation. Mouse studies reported improved insulin sensitivity, protection against diet-induced obesity, and enhanced physical performance and healthspan. Human data are thinner: mainly observational studies showing that circulating MOTS-c changes with exercise or correlates with metabolic status and muscle phenotype. An interventional human trial is registered but is not yet the basis for clinical use.