Also known as: Mitochondrial-derived peptide, Mitochondrial ORF of 12S rRNA type-c
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within a short open reading frame of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene — the first known mitochondrially-encoded peptide with systemic endocrine-like activity, discovered by Changhan David Lee (USC) in 2015. No published human pharmacokinetic study exists; mouse studies suggest rapid clearance (estimated half-life 1–4 hours). Activates AMPK via the folate cycle and AICAR pathway → improved insulin sensitivity, glucose disposal, and fatty acid oxidation. Exercise increases circulating MOTS-c levels in humans. Phase 1 clinical trial of analog CB4211 (NCT03998514). Research protocol: 5–10mg SC 2–3× weekly.
The Halflife app models your MOTS-c concentration curve in real time — see exactly when your dose peaks, when it troughs, and how it overlaps with other compounds in your stack. All stored on-device, no account required.