MOTS-c / Studies

Natural peptide · 16 amino acids · 2,174.6 Da

MOTS-c studies and research data

PepBank has 176 MOTS-c studies with results. 98 of them gave MOTS-c, with 697 results, grouped by what the studies measured. In each group, results from studies in people come first. Data as of 2026-10-30.

Searches 697 results and 280 papers. Newer studies from Europe PMC

Results in people

0% of 697 results

Results in animals

459

66% of 697 results

Results in lab cells

238

34% of 697 results

From computer models

0% of 697 results

The molecule

MOTS-c identity

Identifiers, parent molecule, targets and development stage, from curated data.

MOTS-c (mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a 16-residue peptide encoded by a short open reading frame in the human mitochondrial MT-RNR1 gene (UniProt A0A0C5B5G6). The 2015 discovery paper reported that it acts mainly on skeletal muscle, inhibits the folate cycle and de novo purine synthesis, and leads to AMPK activation; in mice it prevented diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance. FDA's July 2026 review found no publicly available clinical studies of MOTS-c given to humans; one phase 2a trial (NCT07505745) started in 2026. WADA lists MOTS-c as a prohibited AMPK activator.

Kind: Natural peptide · 16 residues
Identifiers: UniProtA0A0C5B5G6 (opens in a new tab)PubChem CID146675088 (opens in a new tab)UNIIA5CV6JFB78 (opens in a new tab)CAS1627580-64-6
Development: Phase 2Hudson Biotech (sponsor of NCT07505745)One interventional trial: NCT07505745, phase 2a (registered as phase 2), randomized, placebo-controlled, subcutaneous, prediabetes with overweight/obesity, site in China, recruiting, actual start 2026-02-02, no results. No phase 1 trial found on ClinicalTrials.gov. Other ClinicalTrials.gov hits measure endogenous MOTS-c or are unrelated. Source (opens in a new tab)

Targets

Molecular targets with action and evidence source
Target	Action	Evidence
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling, indirect	Indirect activator	proposedSource (opens in a new tab)

Sequence and structure

Residues, differences from the parent, calculated properties and 3D structure. Source values and calculated values are shown separately.

Sequence

16 amino acids

H-

MRWQEMGYIF

YPRKLR

-OH

Properties

From identity sources

Formula: C₁₀₁H₁₅₂N₂₈O₂₂S₂
Molecular weight: 2,174.6 g/mol
Monoisotopic mass: 2,173.1077 Da

UniProt A0A0C5B5G6(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-08
GSRS UNII A5CV6JFB78(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-08
PubChem CID 146675088(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-08

Calculated from the sequence

pKa set

Average mass: 2,174.61 Da; Sum of ExPASy residue masses + water · ExPASy Compute pI/Mw; FindMod
Monoisotopic mass: 2,173.1077 Da; Sum of ExPASy residue masses + water · ExPASy FindMod
Isoelectric point (pI): 10.64; pH of zero net charge, EMBOSS pKa set · EMBOSS iep, Epk.dat
Net charge at pH 7.4: 2.94; Henderson-Hasselbalch, EMBOSS pKa set · EMBOSS iep, Epk.dat
GRAVY (hydropathy): −0.938; Mean Kyte-Doolittle hydropathy · Kyte and Doolittle 1982; Negative: hydrophilic on average.
Extinction coefficient, 280 nm (Cys reduced): 8,480 M⁻¹ cm⁻¹; 5500 x Trp + 1490 x Tyr · Pace et al. 1995 (ExPASy ProtParam)
Instability index: 77.30; Dipeptide instability weights (DIWV) · Guruprasad et al. 1990; Above 40: classed as possibly unstable (ExPASy).
Aliphatic index: 48.8; Mole % A + 2.9 V + 3.9 (I + L) · Ikai 1980
Boman index: 2.63 kcal/mol; Mean solubility value (negated) · Boman 2003; Above 2.48: high protein-binding potential (Boman).
Hydrophobic moment (μH): 0.284; Eisenberg scale, 100° per residue, best 11-residue window · Eisenberg et al. 1982, 1984
pI with each pKa set: EMBOSS 10.64Bjellqvist (ExPASy) 10.27IPC peptide 10.57IPC protein 10.71

Defined and validated for proteins; use with care for short peptides.
Assumes an ideal alpha helix. Many short peptides are not helical.

@pepdb/chem 0.2.0 · EMBOSS pKa set · ExPASy residue masses

Net charge by pH

pI 10.64 · Net charge at pH 7.4: 2.94

Point or use arrow keys

Henderson-Hasselbalch, EMBOSS pKa set. Calculated, not measured.

Show as table

pH	Net charge
0	5.00
1	5.00
2	4.97
3	4.73
4	3.84
5	3.15
6	3.01
7	2.98
8	2.78
9	2.12
10	1.01
11	−0.48
12	−1.64
13	−3.27
14	−3.91

Composition

Hydrophobic25% (4)I L M
Aromatic25% (4)F W Y
Positive25% (4)K R
Negative6% (1)E
Polar6% (1)Q
Special13% (2)G P

16 residues. Each residue counts in one class; F and W count as aromatic.

A Ala0 · 0%

I Ile1 · 6%

L Leu1 · 6%

M Met2 · 13%

V Val0 · 0%

F Phe1 · 6%

W Trp1 · 6%

Y Tyr2 · 13%

H His0 · 0%

K Lys1 · 6%

R Arg3 · 19%

D Asp0 · 0%

E Glu1 · 6%

N Asn0 · 0%

Q Gln1 · 6%

S Ser0 · 0%

T Thr0 · 0%

C Cys0 · 0%

G Gly1 · 6%

P Pro1 · 6%

3D structure

PredictedAlphaFold DB · A0A0C5B5G6

Loads the 3D viewer (3Dmol.js, about 150 KB) and the model file from AlphaFold DB (EMBL-EBI).

2D structure

MOTS-c has 16 residues. A full-atom drawing is hard to read at this size; the sequence view is the reference.

SMILES fromPubChem CID 146675088(opens in a new tab)

CC[C@H](C)[C@@H](C(=O)N[C@@H](CC1=CC=CC=C1)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC2=CC=C(C=C2)O)C(=O)N3CCC[C@H]3C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCNC(=N)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCCN)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC(C)C)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCNC(=N)N)C(=O)O)NC(=O)[C@H](CC4=CC=C(C=C4)O)NC(=O)CNC(=O)[C@H](CCSC)NC(=O)[C@H](CCC(=O)O)NC(=O)[C@H](CCC(=O)N)NC(=O)[C@H](CC5=CNC6=CC=CC=C65)NC(=O)[C@H](CCCNC(=N)N)NC(=O)[C@H](CCSC)N

Helical wheel

An ideal alpha-helix projection. It shows where the hydrophobic residues fall if the peptide folds as a helix. It does not show that it does.

μH, residues shown: 0.347
μH, best 11-residue window: 0.284
Arrow direction: 270°
Residues: 16

HydrophilicHydrophobic

Eisenberg consensus (normalized) scale · + K, R · − D, E

Assumes an ideal α-helix: 100° per residue, 3.6 residues per turn. The arrow is the mean hydrophobic moment (Eisenberg et al. 1984) and points at the hydrophobic face.

Show as table

Position	Residue	Angle	Eisenberg consensus (normalized)
1	M	0°	0.64
2	R	100°	-2.53
3	W	200°	0.81
4	Q	300°	-0.85
5	E	40°	-0.74
6	M	140°	0.64
7	G	240°	0.48
8	Y	340°	0.26
9	I	80°	1.38
10	F	180°	1.19
11	Y	280°	0.26
12	P	20°	0.12
13	R	120°	-2.53
14	K	220°	-1.50
15	L	320°	1.06
16	R	60°	-2.53

Results by area

MOTS-c results by year and outcome

Counts are exact and come from studies that gave the peptide.

Studies by year

176 of 280 studies have results (63%), published 2015 to 2027. Top row: every study. Bottom row: studies with results about MOTS-c, by class. The rows use different scales.

Studies
Human
Animal
Lab
Computer model
Natural levels, tool or combination only

Studies279 in all, 2014 to 2027

Studies with results176 in all, 2015 to 2027

Retracted studies are left out. A study with results in two classes counts in both.

AI wrote and checked these results. AI can make mistakes, so check important results against the source.

What the studies measured

People first in each area, then animals, then lab cells. Counts are exact and come from studies that gave the peptide.

MOTS-c studies on receptors and cell signals

164 results · people 0 · animals 91 · lab 73

Top 5 of 164 results

In rats, MOTS‑c treatment raised the level of the active form of the enzyme AMPK.Cardiorenal medicine, 2020
In mice, MOTS‑c increased activation of the enzyme AMPK in the spinal cord.European journal of pharmacology, 2020
In mice with lung injury, MOTS‑c raised the active form of the enzyme AMPK in the lungs.International immunopharmacology, 2020
In lab and animal tests, MOTS‑c bound directly to the cell-survival protein Bcl-2.Cell reports, 2024
In mice with removed ovaries, MOTS‑c switched on the AMPK energy pathway.Journal of molecular medicine, 2019

MOTS-c studies on immune system and inflammation

94 results · people 0 · animals 75 · lab 19

Top 5 of 94 results

In mice with removed ovaries, MOTS‑c treatment reduced inflammatory cell invasion into white fat.Journal of molecular medicine, 2019
In mice with lung injury, MOTS‑c given beforehand reduced fluid build-up in the lungs.International immunopharmacology, 2020
In mice with nerve-injury pain, MOTS‑c reduced inflammatory signal protein production in the spinal cord.ACS chemical neuroscience, 2023
In rats with diabetes, MOTS‑c lowered the levels of proteins in an inflammation pathway in the heart.Biochemical and biophysical research communications, 2024
In an animal model of fatty liver disease, MOTS‑c treatment reduced inflammation.Cell reports, 2024

MOTS-c studies on cells, genes and aging

124 results · people 0 · animals 62 · lab 62

Top 5 of 124 results

In mice with muscular dystrophy, MOTS‑c increased the sugar-burning activity of muscle.EMBO molecular medicine, 2021
In rats, MOTS‑c infused into the brain raised UCP1 levels in tissues outside the brain.Biologia futura, 2023
In mice with heart failure, MOTS‑c peptide raised antioxidant capacity in the heart.Journal of cellular and molecular medicine, 2022
In diabetic rats, MOTS‑c increased the oxygen use of heart mitochondria compared with untreated diabetic rats.Frontiers in physiology, 2025
In rats, MOTS‑c did not change the activity of classic hormone-making genes in the adrenal gland compared with saline.Folia histochemica et cytobiologica, 2026

MOTS-c studies on heart and blood vessels

53 results · people 0 · animals 43 · lab 10

Top 5 of 53 results

In mice with heart failure, MOTS‑c peptide lessened the loss of heart function.Journal of cellular and molecular medicine, 2022
In a lab model of sepsis heart damage, MOTS‑c lowered the blood marker of heart injury CK-MB.Acta biochimica et biophysica Sinica, 2023
In animals, MOTS‑c given beforehand reduced lung injury caused by blocked and restored blood flow.American journal of respiratory cell and molecular biology, 2025
In rats with vascular calcification, MOTS‑c treatment reduced the calcification.Cardiorenal medicine, 2020
In exercised rats, MOTS‑c improved how efficiently the heart muscle works, compared with exercised rats without MOTS‑c.Scientific reports, 2021

MOTS-c studies on muscles and tendons

44 results · people 0 · animals 29 · lab 15

Top 3 of 44 results

In obese mice, MOTS‑c lowered myostatin, a muscle-wasting signal, in blood.American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism, 2021
In mice, MOTS‑c reduced the muscle loss caused by immobilization compared with immobilized mice given water.American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism, 2024
In mice, giving MOTS‑c prevented loss of skeletal muscle.iScience, 2024

MOTS-c studies on brain and nerves

31 results · people 0 · animals 21 · lab 10

Top 5 of 31 results

In mice with nerve-injury pain, MOTS‑c lowered c-Fos, a nerve activity marker, in spinal cord neurons.ACS chemical neuroscience, 2023
In lab cells, MOTS‑c had different effects in wild-type and differentiated retinal cells.Human cell, 2025
In lab cells from spinal discs, MOTS‑c reduced oxidative-damage-induced cell death by 48%.Materials today. Bio, 2025
In rats given rotenone, MOTS‑c given before rotenone protected against oxidative stress.Molecular neurobiology, 2023
In lab cells, the effects of MOTS‑c on cell death, inflammation and mitochondria depended on the dose.Human cell, 2025

MOTS-c studies on blood sugar

32 results · people 0 · animals 19 · lab 13

Top 5 of 32 results

In mice, MOTS‑c treatment prevented insulin resistance that comes with age.Cell metabolism, 2015
In mice, giving MOTS‑c increased glucose uptake by muscle.iScience, 2024
In lab tests on rat and pig pancreatic islets, MOTS‑c reduced insulin release overall, but the effects differed between the two species.Histochemistry and cell biology, 2025
In mice with removed ovaries, MOTS‑c treatment prevented the insulin resistance that this surgery normally causes.Journal of molecular medicine, 2019
In cells, MOTS‑c lowered insulin release from INS-1E beta cells.Histochemistry and cell biology, 2024

MOTS-c studies on liver

14 results · people 0 · animals 14 · lab 0

Top 3 of 14 results

In animals in the cold, MOTS‑c treatment reduced the movement of fat to the liver.International journal of molecular sciences, 2019
In HBV-infected mice, liver function improved alongside MOTS‑c treatment.Gut, 2024
In an animal model of fatty liver disease, MOTS‑c treatment reduced fat build-up in the liver.Cell reports, 2024

MOTS-c studies on weight and appetite

14 results · people 0 · animals 14 · lab 0

Top 5 of 14 results

In rats, MOTS‑c infused into the brain did not change body weight.Biologia futura, 2023
In mice with removed ovaries, MOTS‑c treatment increased the activity of brown fat.Journal of molecular medicine, 2019
In mice with cancer cachexia, MOTS‑c did not stop overall body weight loss.Frontiers in medicine, 2026
In rats, MOTS‑c infused into the brain increased how much the rats ate.Biologia futura, 2023
In mice with a lung disease model, added MOTS‑c reduced stunted growth.European journal of pharmacology, 2026

MOTS-c studies on pain

13 results · people 0 · animals 13 · lab 0

Top 3 of 13 results

In mice, MOTS‑c injections reduced paw licking after formalin injection, and larger doses reduced it more.European journal of pharmacology, 2020
In mice with nerve-injury pain, MOTS‑c reduced pain-like responses, with stronger effects at higher doses.ACS chemical neuroscience, 2023
In mice with bone cancer, MOTS‑c injections strongly reduced cancer pain.Acta biochimica et biophysica Sinica, 2024

MOTS-c studies on sex hormones and fertility

11 results · people 0 · animals 11 · lab 0

Top 5 of 11 results

In obese and non-obese rats, MOTS‑c infused into the brain raised the gene activity of GnRH, a reproductive hormone.Neuroscience letters, 2024
In male mice, MOTS‑c protected sperm-producing function in the testes from damage caused by chemotherapy given before puberty.Reproductive toxicology, 2024
In mice with gestational diabetes, MOTS‑c reduced the pup birth weight induced by the condition.Pharmacological research, 2022
In obese and non-obese rats, MOTS‑c infused into the brain raised GnRH protein levels.Neuroscience letters, 2024
In a lab model of mechanical stress, added MOTS‑c reduced damage to sperm production.Free radical biology & medicine, 2026

MOTS-c studies on daily life and fitness

9 results · people 0 · animals 9 · lab 0

Top 5 of 9 results

In mice of three ages, MOTS‑c improved physical performance.Nature communications, 2021
In untrained mice, a single dose of MOTS‑c increased running time in an exercise test.Physiological reports, 2022
In mice with brain injury, MOTS‑c improved movement problems.Drug design, development and therapy, 2024
In old mice, MOTS‑c treatment reversed their decline in physical ability.Innovation in aging, 2022
In rats, MOTS‑c injections prevented increased muscle fatigue during 7 days of hindlimb unloading.Journal of muscle research and cell motility, 2025

MOTS-c studies on side effects

9 results · people 0 · animals 8 · lab 1

Top 5 of 9 results

In mice with nerve-injury pain, MOTS‑c injected into the spinal canal caused less pain-relief tolerance than morphine.ACS chemical neuroscience, 2023
In HBV-infected mice, MOTS‑c showed no notable toxicity.Gut, 2024
In mice with nerve-injury pain, MOTS‑c injected into the spinal canal slowed gut movement less than morphine.ACS chemical neuroscience, 2023
In mice, long-term MOTS‑c had little effect on kidney function.Acta biochimica et biophysica Sinica, 2024
In mice, long-term MOTS‑c had little effect on liver function.Acta biochimica et biophysica Sinica, 2024

MOTS-c studies on bones and joints

20 results · people 0 · animals 5 · lab 15

Top 3 of 20 results

In mice with ovary removal, MOTS‑c treatment reduced bone loss.Biochemical and biophysical research communications, 2016
In mice with particle-induced bone loss, MOTS‑c treatment reduced bone erosion.Pharmacological research, 2019
In mice with bone cancer, MOTS‑c protected the bone from local damage.Acta biochimica et biophysica Sinica, 2024

MOTS-c studies on hormones

5 results · people 0 · animals 5 · lab 0

5 results

In rats, MOTS‑c infused into the brain lowered blood thyroid-stimulating hormone.Biologia futura, 2023
In rats, MOTS‑c did not change blood corticosterone compared with saline.Folia histochemica et cytobiologica, 2026
In rats, MOTS‑c infused into the brain lowered blood T3 thyroid hormone.Biologia futura, 2023
In rats, MOTS‑c did not change blood aldosterone compared with saline.Folia histochemica et cytobiologica, 2026
In rats, MOTS‑c infused into the brain lowered blood T4 thyroid hormone.Biologia futura, 2023

MOTS-c studies on memory and thinking

5 results · people 0 · animals 5 · lab 0

Top 3 of 5 results

In animals, MOTS‑c given centrally improved memory formation and consolidation for objects and locations.ACS chemical neuroscience, 2021
In mice with brain injury, MOTS‑c improved memory problems.Drug design, development and therapy, 2024
In animals, MOTS‑c given centrally eased the memory loss caused by Aβ1-42.ACS chemical neuroscience, 2021

MOTS-c studies on stomach and gut

5 results · people 0 · animals 5 · lab 0

Top 3 of 5 results

In animals with induced colitis, MOTS‑c injections reduced weight loss.European journal of pharmacology, 2023
In animals with induced colitis, MOTS‑c injections reduced shortening of the colon.European journal of pharmacology, 2023
In animals with induced colitis, MOTS‑c injections reduced diarrhea.European journal of pharmacology, 2023

MOTS-c studies on kidneys and bladder

4 results · people 0 · animals 4 · lab 0

Top 3 of 4 results

In mice with narrowed kidney arteries, cells pretreated with MOTS‑c did not improve blood flow to the kidney.Inflammation and regeneration, 2026
In mice with narrowed kidney arteries, cells pretreated with MOTS‑c did not reduce kidney scarring.Inflammation and regeneration, 2026
In mice with narrowed kidney arteries, cells pretreated with MOTS‑c did not reduce kidney tubule damage.Inflammation and regeneration, 2026

MOTS-c studies on metabolism and nutrition

4 results · people 0 · animals 4 · lab 0

4 results

In obese mice, MOTS‑c injection lowered a plasma fat-metabolism pathway (sphingolipid) that is raised in obesity and type 2 diabetes models.Physiological reports, 2019
In animals, MOTS‑c treatment improved tolerance to cold.International journal of molecular sciences, 2019
In obese mice, MOTS‑c injection lowered a plasma fat-metabolism pathway (monoacylglycerol) that is raised in obesity and type 2 diabetes models.Physiological reports, 2019
In obese mice, MOTS‑c injection lowered a plasma metabolism pathway (dicarboxylate) that is raised in obesity and type 2 diabetes models.Physiological reports, 2019

MOTS-c studies on skin, hair and wounds

4 results · people 0 · animals 4 · lab 0

Top 3 of 4 results

In animals with a poorly supplied skin flap, MOTS‑c treatment improved blood flow.Autophagy, 2026
In animals with a poorly supplied skin flap, MOTS‑c treatment was followed by more new blood vessels.Autophagy, 2026
In animals with a poorly supplied skin flap, MOTS‑c treatment was followed by more tissue remodeling.Autophagy, 2026

MOTS-c studies on survival and serious illness

4 results · people 0 · animals 4 · lab 0

4 results

In mice with LPS-induced sepsis, MOTS‑c raised survival compared with LPS alone.The International journal of neuroscience, 2026
In mice infected with MRSA, MOTS‑c improved survival.Molecular immunology, 2017
In rats with lung injury, giving MOTS‑c lowered deaths.Redox biology, 2025
In mice with LPS-induced sepsis, MOTS‑c lowered the sickness score compared with LPS alone.The International journal of neuroscience, 2026

MOTS-c studies on infections

9 results · people 0 · animals 3 · lab 6

Top 5 of 9 results

In mice infected with MRSA, MOTS‑c lowered the amount of bacteria.Molecular immunology, 2017
In HBV-infected mice, MOTS‑c reduced virus copying; the 50-70% rate is not split between cells and mice.Gut, 2024
In mice with peritonitis, MOTS‑c fully neutralized MRSA infection.eLife, 2026
In lab-grown HBV-infected cells, MOTS‑c reduced virus copying; the 50-70% rate is not split between cells and mice.Gut, 2024
In cells, MOTS‑c improved the ability of macrophages to kill bacteria.Molecular immunology, 2017

MOTS-c studies on cholesterol and blood fats

6 results · people 0 · animals 3 · lab 3

Top 5 of 6 results

In mice with removed ovaries, MOTS‑c treatment was linked to lower fatty acid levels in blood.Journal of molecular medicine, 2019
In mice with removed ovaries, MOTS‑c treatment was linked to lower fatty acid levels in the liver.Journal of molecular medicine, 2019
In cells, MOTS‑c lowered the making of fats in old stem cells.Mitochondrion, 2021
In mice, long-term MOTS‑c had little effect on blood fat measures.Acta biochimica et biophysica Sinica, 2024
In cells, MOTS‑c raised fat build-up in L6 muscle cells exposed to free fatty acids.Cellular physiology and biochemistry, 2025

MOTS-c studies on mood, stress and behavior

3 results · people 0 · animals 3 · lab 0

3 results

In rats exposed to valproic acid before birth, MOTS‑c reversed poor social behavior.Molecular neurobiology, 2026
In rats exposed to valproic acid before birth, MOTS‑c did not reverse anxiety.Molecular neurobiology, 2026
In rats exposed to valproic acid before birth, MOTS‑c reversed repeated behaviors.Molecular neurobiology, 2026

MOTS-c studies on lungs and breathing

8 results · people 0 · animals 2 · lab 6

Top 5 of 8 results

In mice with a lung disease model, added MOTS‑c reduced the loss of fine lung structure.European journal of pharmacology, 2026
In lab tests on rodent aortic rings, MOTS‑c alone did not widen or narrow the vessels.International journal of cardiology, 2018
In mice with a lung disease model, added MOTS‑c reduced abnormal lung blood vessels.European journal of pharmacology, 2026
In lab tests, rat vessels pretreated with MOTS‑c responded better to acetylcholine than vessels without MOTS‑c.International journal of cardiology, 2018
In human blood vessel cells in the lab, MOTS‑c improved cell survival under high oxygen.European journal of pharmacology, 2026

MOTS-c studies on blood levels and clearance

2 results · people 0 · animals 2 · lab 0

2 results

In animals, MOTS‑c given outside the brain did not cross the blood-brain barrier.ACS chemical neuroscience, 2021
In mice with brain injury, MOTS‑c given outside the brain reached brain tissue.Drug design, development and therapy, 2024

MOTS-c studies on cancer

6 results · people 0 · animals 1 · lab 5

Top 3 of 6 results

In animal tests, MOTS‑c clearly slowed ovarian cancer growth.Advanced science, 2024
In lab tests, added MOTS‑c slowed the growth of ovarian cancer cells.Advanced science, 2024
In lab tests, added MOTS‑c reduced the movement of ovarian cancer cells.Advanced science, 2024

Trials and papers

MOTS-c trials

Registered trials that test the peptide, with phase, status and dates. A dot marks trials with posted results.

StatusPhase

1 trial match. Highest phase first. Data from ClinicalTrials.gov.

Trials on this page (1 of 1)

1 trial · 1 ongoing

Completed
Ongoing
Not yet recruiting
Stopped
Estimated dates (est.)
Results posted

2026202720282029

Ph 2
MOTS-MET
NCT07505745
2 Feb 2026 to est. 17 May 2028

1 trial · 1 ongoing · source ClinicalTrials.gov (opens in a new tab)

RecruitingPhase 2NCT07505745

MOTS-c for Improving Insulin Sensitivity in Adults With Prediabetes and Overweight/Obesity

Hudson Biotechn = 1202 Feb 2026 to est. 17 May 2028

Prediabetes · Insulin Resistance · Overweight/Obesity

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 1 Apr 2026

3 more mention it but do not test it. They are not trials of MOTS-c: they only measure it (a blood level or an eligibility term) or name it in their text.

Papers

Studies on this peptide. Some have results. The others have none yet.

Sort

Design

280 studies match. Retracted studies are left out.

Showing 17 of 280 studiesquery qry_24dc99df7535207e70716102

Studies with results

176 studies in all, 17 on this page

Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2015

6 results

The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance.

Lee et al. 2015Cell metabolismcited by 584

PMID 25738459PMC4350682DOI 10.1016/j.cmet.2015.02.009PUB-25738459

Rights unknown6 results where MOTS-c was given

Source link See results (6)

In vitro (cells) · 2018

3 results

The Mitochondrial-Encoded Peptide MOTS-c Translocates to the Nucleus to Regulate Nuclear Gene Expression in Response to Metabolic Stress.

Kim et al. 2018Cell metabolismcited by 259

PMID 29983246PMC6185997DOI 10.1016/j.cmet.2018.06.008PUB-29983246

Rights unknown3 results where MOTS-c was given

Source link See results (3)

Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2021

7 results

MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline and muscle homeostasis.

Reynolds et al. 2021Nature communicationscited by 175

PMID 33473109PMC7817689DOI 10.1038/s41467-020-20790-0PUB-33473109

CC BY6 results where MOTS-c was given (plus 1 on natural levels, listed separately)

Download PDF See results (7)

In vitro (cells) · 2018

8 results

Mitochondrial peptides modulate mitochondrial function during cellular senescence.

Kim et al. 2018Agingcited by 122

PMID 29886458PMC6046248DOI 10.18632/aging.101463PUB-29886458

CC BY3 results where MOTS-c was given (plus 1 on natural levels, listed separately)

Download PDF See results (8)

Measured the body's own MOTS-c · 2022

4 results

SARS-CoV-2 and Mitochondrial Proteins in Neural-Derived Exosomes of COVID-19.

Peluso et al. 2022Annals of neurologycited by 113

PMID 35285072PMC9082480DOI 10.1002/ana.26350PUB-35285072

Rights unknown2 results on the body's own MOTS-c. Nobody was given MOTS-c.

Source link See results (4)

Measured the body's own MOTS-c · 2021

5 results

Abnormal levels of mitochondrial proteins in plasma neuronal extracellular vesicles in major depressive disorder.

Goetzl et al. 2021Molecular psychiatrycited by 100

PMID 34471251PMC8872999DOI 10.1038/s41380-021-01268-xPUB-34471251

CC BY2 results on the body's own MOTS-c. Nobody was given MOTS-c.

Download PDF See results (5)

Measured the body's own MOTS-c · 2019

23 results

Mitochondrial-Derived Peptides Are Down Regulated in Diabetes Subjects.

Ramanjaneya et al. 2019Frontiers in endocrinologycited by 91

PMID 31214116PMC6554664DOI 10.3389/fendo.2019.00331PUB-31214116

CC BY9 results on the body's own MOTS-c. Nobody was given MOTS-c.

Download PDF See results (23)

Ex vivo tissue · mouse and rat · 2018

6 results

Downregulation of circulating MOTS-c levels in patients with coronary endothelial dysfunction.

Qin et al. 2018International journal of cardiologycited by 85

PMID 29242099DOI 10.1016/j.ijcard.2017.12.001PUB-29242099

Full text at the publisher3 results where MOTS-c was given (plus 3 on natural levels, listed separately)

Publisher page See results (6)

Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2021

3 results

Mitohormesis in Hypothalamic POMC Neurons Mediates Regular Exercise-Induced High-Turnover Metabolism.

Kang et al. 2021Cell metabolismcited by 82

PMID 33535098PMC7959183DOI 10.1016/j.cmet.2021.01.003PUB-33535098

Rights unknown1 result where MOTS-c was given (plus 2 on natural levels, listed separately)

Source link See results (3)

Measured the body's own MOTS-c · 2018

10 results

Circulating MOTS-c levels are decreased in obese male children and adolescents and associated with insulin resistance.

Du et al. 2018Pediatric diabetescited by 77

PMID 29691953DOI 10.1111/pedi.12685PUB-29691953

Full text at the publisher10 results on the body's own MOTS-c. Nobody was given MOTS-c.

Publisher page See results (10)

Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2016

4 results

Mitochondria related peptide MOTS-c suppresses ovariectomy-induced bone loss via AMPK activation.

Ming et al. 2016Biochemical and biophysical research communicationscited by 73

PMID 27237975DOI 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.05.135PUB-27237975

Full text at the publisher4 results where MOTS-c was given

Publisher page See results (4)

Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2019

11 results

MOTS-c peptide regulates adipose homeostasis to prevent ovariectomy-induced metabolic dysfunction.

Lu et al. 2019Journal of molecular medicine (Berlin, Germany)cited by 71

PMID 30725119DOI 10.1007/s00109-018-01738-wPUB-30725119

Full text at the publisher11 results where MOTS-c was given

Publisher page See results (11)

In vitro (cells) · 2021

7 results

MOTS-c interacts synergistically with exercise intervention to regulate PGC-1α expression, attenuate insulin resistance and enhance glucose metabolism in mice via AMPK signaling pathway.

Yang et al. 2021Biochimica et biophysica acta. Molecular basis of diseasecited by 71

PMID 33722744DOI 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166126PUB-33722744

Full text at the publisher1 result where MOTS-c was given (plus 6 on natural levels, listed separately)

Publisher page See results (7)

Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2017

10 results

MOTS-c peptide increases survival and decreases bacterial load in mice infected with MRSA.

Zhai et al. 2017Molecular immunologycited by 65

PMID 29096170DOI 10.1016/j.molimm.2017.10.017PUB-29096170

Full text at the publisher10 results where MOTS-c was given

Publisher page See results (10)

Measured the body's own MOTS-c · 2019

7 results

Reduced skeletal muscle expression of mitochondrial-derived peptides humanin and MOTS-C and Nrf2 in chronic kidney disease.

Liu et al. 2019American journal of physiology. Renal physiologycited by 62

PMID 31432706DOI 10.1152/ajprenal.00202.2019PUB-31432706

Rights unknown2 results on the body's own MOTS-c. Nobody was given MOTS-c.

Source link See results (7)

Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2019

7 results

MOTS-c inhibits Osteolysis in the Mouse Calvaria by affecting osteocyte-osteoclast crosstalk and inhibiting inflammation.

Yan et al. 2019Pharmacological researchcited by 57

PMID 31369811DOI 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104381PUB-31369811

Full text at the publisher7 results where MOTS-c was given

Publisher page See results (7)

Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2021

8 results

MOTS-c reduces myostatin and muscle atrophy signaling.

Kumagai et al. 2021American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolismcited by 56

PMID 33554779PMC8238132DOI 10.1152/ajpendo.00275.2020PUB-33554779

Rights unknown7 results where MOTS-c was given (plus 1 on natural levels, listed separately)

Source link See results (8)

No result for MOTS-c (8 studies on this page, 61 in all)

These studies name MOTS-c but give no result for it (for example, the results concern another peptide in the study).

PubMed tag: Review · 2016

MOTS-c: A novel mitochondrial-derived peptide regulating muscle and fat metabolism.

Lee et al. 2016Free radical biology & medicinecited by 148

PMID 27216708PMC5116416DOI 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2016.05.015PUB-27216708

Rights unknown

Source link

PubMed tag: Review · 2017

Mitochondrially derived peptides as novel regulators of metabolism.

Kim et al. 2017The Journal of physiologycited by 147

PMID 28574175DOI 10.1113/jp274472PUB-28574175

Rights unknown

Source link

PubMed tag: review-article, Review · 2020

Mitochondrial-derived peptides in energy metabolism.

Merry et al. 2020American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolismcited by 113

PMID 32776825PMC7750512DOI 10.1152/ajpendo.00249.2020PUB-32776825

Rights unknown

Source link

PubMed tag: review-article, Review · 2022

Mitochondria-derived peptides in aging and healthspan.

Miller et al. 2022The Journal of clinical investigationcited by 97

PMID 35499074PMC9057581DOI 10.1172/jci158449PUB-35499074

CC BY

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PubMed tag: article-commentary · 2015

The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c: a player in exceptional longevity?

Fuku et al. 2015Aging cellcited by 86

PMID 26289118PMC4693465DOI 10.1111/acel.12389PUB-26289118

CC BY

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PubMed tag: Review · 2019

The role of mitochondria-derived peptides in cardiovascular disease: Recent updates.

Yang et al. 2019Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapiecited by 66

PMID 31185388DOI 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109075PUB-31185388

Full text at the publisher

Publisher page

PubMed tag: Review · 2021

Mitochondrial-derived peptides in aging and age-related diseases.

Kim et al. 2021GeroSciencecited by 64

PMID 32910336PMC8190245DOI 10.1007/s11357-020-00262-5PUB-32910336

Rights unknown

Source link

PubMed tag: Review · 2020

Peptides derived from small mitochondrial open reading frames: Genomic, biological, and therapeutic implications.

Miller et al. 2020Experimental cell researchcited by 57

PMID 32387288PMC7778388DOI 10.1016/j.yexcr.2020.112056PUB-32387288

Rights unknown

Source link

Newer studies

PepBank reads each paper before it shows the results. This search looks in Europe PMC for newer papers that PepBank has not read yet.

MOTS-c studies: 176 papers with results

Page 1 of 4

Central MOTS-c infusion affects reproductive hormones in obese and non-obese rats.
Ozturk Öztürk DA · Neuroscience letters · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 6 results
Effects of intracerebroventricular MOTS-c infusion on thyroid hormones and uncoupling proteins.
Bahar MR · Biologia futura · 2023
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 7 results
MOTS-c primes adrenal cortex metabolism without directly driving steroidogenesis.
Blatkiewicz M · Folia histochemica et cytobiologica · 2026
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 15 results
The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance.
Lee C · Cell metabolism · 2015
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 6 results
MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline and muscle homeostasis.
Reynolds JC · Nature communications · 2021
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 7 results
Mitohormesis in Hypothalamic POMC Neurons Mediates Regular Exercise-Induced High-Turnover Metabolism.
Kang GM · Cell metabolism · 2021
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 3 results
Mitochondria related peptide MOTS-c suppresses ovariectomy-induced bone loss via AMPK activation.
Ming W · Biochemical and biophysical research communications · 2016
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 4 results
MOTS-c peptide regulates adipose homeostasis to prevent ovariectomy-induced metabolic dysfunction.
Lu H · Journal of molecular medicine (Berlin, Germany) · 2019
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 11 results
MOTS-c peptide increases survival and decreases bacterial load in mice infected with MRSA.
Zhai D · Molecular immunology · 2017
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 10 results
MOTS-c inhibits Osteolysis in the Mouse Calvaria by affecting osteocyte-osteoclast crosstalk and inhibiting inflammation.
Yan Z · Pharmacological research · 2019
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 7 results
MOTS-c reduces myostatin and muscle atrophy signaling.
Kumagai H · American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism · 2021
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 8 results
The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c relieves hyperglycemia and insulin resistance in gestational diabetes mellitus.
Yin Y · Pharmacological research · 2022
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 8 results
The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c is a regulator of plasma metabolites and enhances insulin sensitivity.
Kim SJ · Physiological reports · 2019
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 3 results
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide MOTS-c Increases Adipose Thermogenic Activation to Promote Cold Adaptation.
Lu H · International journal of molecular sciences · 2019
Animal study (in vivo) · 6 results
A pro-diabetogenic mtDNA polymorphism in the mitochondrial-derived peptide, MOTS-c.
Zempo H · Aging · 2021
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 8 results
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide MOTS-c Attenuates Vascular Calcification and Secondary Myocardial Remodeling via Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathway.
Wei M · Cardiorenal medicine · 2020
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 4 results
Adiponectin treatment improves insulin resistance in mice by regulating the expression of the mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c and its response to exercise via APPL1-SIRT1-PGC-1α.
Guo Q · Diabetologia · 2020
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 8 results
The intraperitoneal administration of MOTS-c produces antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects through the activation of AMPK pathway in the mouse formalin test.
Yin X · European journal of pharmacology · 2020
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 9 results
Protective effect of MOTS-c on acute lung injury induced by lipopolysaccharide in mice.
Xinqiang Y · International immunopharmacology · 2020
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 17 results
Peripheral Administration of a Cell-Penetrating MOTS-c Analogue Enhances Memory and Attenuates Aβ1-42- or LPS-Induced Memory Impairment through Inhibiting Neuroinflammation.
Jiang J · ACS chemical neuroscience · 2021
Animal study (in vivo) · 11 results
Earlier changes in mice after D-galactose treatment were improved by mitochondria derived small peptide MOTS-c.
Li Q · Biochemical and biophysical research communications · 2019
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2 results
Mitochondrial derived peptide MOTS-c prevents the development of heart failure under pressure overload conditions in mice.
Zhong P · Journal of cellular and molecular medicine · 2022
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 7 results
The mitochondrial signaling peptide MOTS-c improves myocardial performance during exercise training in rats.
Yuan J · Scientific reports · 2021
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 3 results
The role of MOTS-c-mediated antioxidant defense in aerobic exercise alleviating diabetic myocardial injury.
Tang M · Scientific reports · 2023
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 11 results
The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c suppresses ferroptosis and alleviates acute lung injury induced by myocardial ischemia reperfusion via PPARγ signaling pathway.
Lu P · European journal of pharmacology · 2023
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 5 results
The Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide MOTS-c Alleviates Radiation Pneumonitis via an Nrf2-Dependent Mechanism.
Zhang Y · Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 10 results
MOTS-c and Exercise Restore Cardiac Function by Activating of NRG1-ErbB Signaling in Diabetic Rats.
Li S · Frontiers in endocrinology · 2022
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 7 results
Novel function of MOTS-c in mitochondrial remodelling contributes to its antiviral role during HBV infection.
Lin C · Gut · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 11 results
MOTS-c repairs myocardial damage by inhibiting the CCN1/ERK1/2/EGR1 pathway in diabetic rats.
Wang M · Frontiers in nutrition · 2022
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 8 results
Orally administered MOTS-c analogue ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis by inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis.
Jiang J · European journal of pharmacology · 2023
Animal study (in vivo) · 15 results
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide MOTS-c Ameliorates Spared Nerve Injury-Induced Neuropathic Pain in Mice by Inhibiting Microglia Activation and Neuronal Oxidative Damage in the Spinal Cord via the AMPK Pathway.
Jiang J · ACS chemical neuroscience · 2023
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 15 results
The DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit exacerbates endotoxemia-induced myocardial microvascular injury by disrupting the MOTS-c/JNK pathway and inducing profilin-mediated lamellipodia degradation.
Zou R · Theranostics · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 5 results
The mitochondrial genome-encoded peptide MOTS-c interacts with Bcl-2 to alleviate nonalcoholic steatohepatitis progression.
Lu H · Cell reports · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · 9 results
The Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide (MOTS-c) Interacted with Nrf2 to Defend the Antioxidant System to Protect Dopaminergic Neurons Against Rotenone Exposure.
Xiao J · Molecular neurobiology · 2023
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 13 results
MOTS-c increases in skeletal muscle following long-term physical activity and improves acute exercise performance after a single dose.
Hyatt JK · Physiological reports · 2022
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 7 results
Mitochondrial-derived microprotein MOTS-c attenuates immobilization-induced skeletal muscle atrophy by suppressing lipid infiltration.
Kumagai H · American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 10 results
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide MOTS-c Suppresses Ovarian Cancer Progression by Attenuating USP7-Mediated LARS1 Deubiquitination.
Yin Y · Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany) · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · 13 results
MOTS-c Promotes Glycolysis via AMPK-HIF-1α-PFKFB3 Pathway to Ameliorate Cardiopulmonary Bypass-induced Lung Injury.
Shen Z · American journal of respiratory cell and molecular biology · 2025
Animal study (in vivo) · 10 results
MOTS-c modulates skeletal muscle function by directly binding and activating CK2.
Kumagai H · iScience · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 12 results
MOTS-c promotes phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer uptake and efficacy in dystrophic mice.
Ran N · EMBO molecular medicine · 2021
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 11 results
The role of FPR2-mediated ferroptosis in formyl peptide-induced acute lung injury against endothelial barrier damage and protective effect of the mitochondria-derived peptide MOTS-c.
Wen Z · International immunopharmacology · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 12 results
MOTS-c Peptide Attenuated Diabetic Cardiomyopathy in STZ-Induced Type 1 Diabetic Mouse Model.
Wu N · Cardiovascular drugs and therapy · 2025
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 4 results
Mitochondria-derived peptide MOTS-c restores mitochondrial respiration in type 2 diabetic heart.
Pham T · Frontiers in physiology · 2025
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 6 results
MOTS-c attenuates lung ischemia-reperfusion injury via MYH9-Dependent nuclear translocation and transcriptional activation of antioxidant genes.
Li X · Redox biology · 2025
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 8 results
MOTS-c and aerobic exercise induce cardiac physiological adaptation via NRG1/ErbB4/CEBPβ modification in rats.
Yuan J · Life sciences · 2023
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 17 results
Mitochondrial-encoded peptide MOTS-c prevents pancreatic islet cell senescence to delay diabetes.
Kong BS · Experimental & molecular medicine · 2025
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 5 results
MOTS-c regulates the ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway to alleviate diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Fu Y · Biochemical and biophysical research communications · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 2 results
Effect of Humanin and MOTS-c on ameliorating reproductive damage induced by prepubertal cyclophosphamide chemotherapy in male mice.
Wang J · Reproductive toxicology (Elmsford, N.Y.) · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2 results
MOTS-c is an effective target for treating cancer-induced bone pain through the induction of AMPK-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis.
Yang L · Acta biochimica et biophysica Sinica · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 13 results
MOTS-c attenuates airway barrier dysfunction in allergic asthma by inhibiting epithelial apoptosis via Nrf2 pathway.
Zhang W · International immunopharmacology · 2025
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 10 results

Status and safety

Regulatory and safety

Approval and sport status, and the safety outcomes reported in study results. Laws and labels change, so check the regulator for the current status.

Regulatory status by jurisdiction, with date and source
Jurisdiction	Body	Status	As of	Source
US	FDA	No Drugs@FDA application (openFDA). FDA slides: neither form is a component of an FDA-approved drug; no USP/NF monograph.	30 Oct 2026	Not recorded
EU	EMA	No entry in EMA medicines data. FDA slides state MOTS-c is not recognized on the EMA website.	30 Oct 2026	Not recorded
Sport	WADA	Banned in sport (WADA S4) Named in S4.4.1 (activators of AMPK): 'mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c (MOTS-c)'.	2026 List	wada-ama.org (opens in a new tab)

Safety outcomes

12 safety results for MOTS-c.

No safety results from studies in people

The safety results below come from animal or lab studies. They do not show what happens in people.

Animal evidence· 11

In mice with gestational diabetes, MOTS‑c reduced the death of offspring induced by gestational diabetes.
Animal study (in vivo)mouse
In HBV-infected mice, no notable toxicity of MOTS‑c was observed.
Animal study (in vivo)mouse
In mice with spared nerve injury, intrathecal MOTS‑c caused limited side effects relating to antinociceptive tolerance, in contrast to morphine.
Animal study (in vivo)mouse
In mice with spared nerve injury, intrathecal MOTS‑c caused limited gastrointestinal transit inhibition, in contrast to morphine.
Animal study (in vivo)mouse
In mice with spared nerve injury, intrathecal MOTS‑c caused limited side effects on locomotor function, in contrast to morphine.
Animal study (in vivo)mouse
In mice with spared nerve injury, intrathecal MOTS‑c caused limited side effects on motor coordination, in contrast to morphine.
Animal study (in vivo)mouse
In vivo, MOTS‑c showed no systemic toxicity.
Animal study (in vivo)
In mice, chronic administration of MOTS‑c had little effect on liver function.
Animal study (in vivo)mouse

Lab evidence· 1

In HBV-infected cells, no notable toxicity of MOTS‑c was observed.
In vitro (cells)

Doses studied · 30

The doses that these studies used. They are not recommendations.

10 and 100 µMAnimal
Species
rat
Route
intracerebroventricular
Duration
14 days
Design
Animal study (in vivo) · n = 80
10 and 100 µMAnimal
Species
rat
Route
intracerebroventricular
Duration
Not reported
Design
Animal study (in vivo) · n = 40
0.1 μmol/24 hAnimal
Species
rat
Route
subcutaneous
Duration
24 hours
Design
Animal study (in vivo) · n = 16
5 mg/kg once a dayAnimal
Species
mouse
Route
Not reported
Duration
12 weeks
Design
Animal study (in vivo)
5 mg/kg once a dayAnimal
Species
rat
Route
Not reported
Duration
4 weeks
Design
Animal study (in vivo)
50 mg/kgAnimal
Species
mouse
Route
intraperitoneal
Duration
Not reported
Design
Animal study (in vivo)

Doses studied in the study results, as given in the studies.
Dose as reported	Class	Species	Route	Duration	Design
10 and 100 µM	Animal	rat	intracerebroventricular	14 days	Animal study (in vivo) · n = 80
10 and 100 µM	Animal	rat	intracerebroventricular	Not reported	Animal study (in vivo) · n = 40
0.1 μmol/24 h	Animal	rat	subcutaneous	24 hours	Animal study (in vivo) · n = 16
5 mg/kg once a day	Animal	mouse	Not reported	12 weeks	Animal study (in vivo)
5 mg/kg once a day	Animal	rat	Not reported	4 weeks	Animal study (in vivo)
50 mg/kg	Animal	mouse	intraperitoneal	Not reported	Animal study (in vivo)

6 of 30 shown

PepBank is a research reference. Talk to a doctor before you use any peptide.

Data

Data and API

Data version, change history and code for this peptide.

Data version 30856030 Oct 2026

Peptide

Peptide id: PEP-000016
Peptide version: 9
Peptide hash: a237d488b4ea5071…
Data version: 308560

Latest changes

30 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 308551
27 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 256732
22 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 254553
21 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 213645
14 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 194712
13 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 173554

For developers

curl -s https://pepbank.io/v1/briefs/mots-c

Evidence summary for MOTS-c: counts by class, key results with sources, notices, data version.

Peptide as JSON Evidence summary as JSON

Outcome group	Human	Animal	Lab	Computer model	Total
Receptor activity and mechanismSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 91 results from 32 studies: 28 increase, 34 decrease, 9 no significant change, 20 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 73 results from 36 studies: 25 increase, 19 decrease, 2 no significant change, 1 mixed, 26 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	164
Inflammation markersSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 75 results from 27 studies: 6 increase, 66 decrease, 3 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 18 results from 10 studies: 3 increase, 15 decrease. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	93
Mitochondrial functionRespiratory	No results	Animal: 36 results from 21 studies: 20 increase, 10 decrease, 1 no significant change, 2 mixed, 3 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 51 results from 22 studies: 22 increase, 16 decrease, 7 no significant change, 6 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	87
Heart functionCardiovascular	No results	Animal: 37 results from 15 studies: 15 increase, 18 decrease, 3 no significant change, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 10 results from 3 studies: 4 increase, 6 decrease. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	47
Muscle injury and repairMusculoskeletal	No results	Animal: 29 results from 8 studies: 7 increase, 13 decrease, 5 no significant change, 4 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 15 results from 5 studies: 7 increase, 5 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	44
Glycemic controlMusculoskeletal	No results	Animal: 19 results from 12 studies: 6 increase, 10 decrease, 3 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 13 results from 4 studies: 4 increase, 4 decrease, 3 no significant change, 2 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	32
NeuroprotectionNervous system and cognition	No results	Animal: 21 results from 4 studies: 9 increase, 9 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 10 results from 4 studies: 2 increase, 2 decrease, 1 no significant change, 4 mixed, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	31
Bone and jointMusculoskeletal	No results	Animal: 5 results from 4 studies: 4 decrease, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 15 results from 5 studies: 8 increase, 4 decrease, 3 not reported. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	20
Oxidative stressRespiratory	No results	Animal: 11 results from 4 studies: 8 increase, 3 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 4 results from 2 studies: 1 increase, 3 decrease. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	15
Liver fat and liver functionLiver	No results	Animal: 14 results from 4 studies: 2 increase, 11 decrease, 1 no significant change. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	14
PainNervous system and cognition	No results	Animal: 13 results from 5 studies: 11 decrease, 1 no significant change, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	13
Body weightWhole body	No results	Animal: 10 results from 8 studies: 6 decrease, 4 no significant change. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	10

Outcome group	Human	Animal	Lab	Computer model	All
Mitochondrial functionWhole body	111	29	3	–	143
Aging markersReproductive and sexual health	33	1	1	–	35
Exercise and physical functionWhole body	21	4	–	–	25
Cardiovascular eventsKidney and urinary	23	–	–	–	23
Endogenous peptide levelsRespiratory	17	–	1	–	18
Glycemic controlMetabolic and weight	15	–	1	–	16
Receptor activity and mechanismMusculoskeletal	1	3	7	–	11
Liver fat and liver functionLiver	6	3	–	–	9
Body weightMetabolic and weight	7	–	–	–	7
Cognition and memoryNervous system and cognition	7	–	–	–	7
LipidsMetabolic and weight	7	–	–	–	7
Inflammation markersRespiratory	6	–	–	–	6
Muscle injury and repairMusculoskeletal	5	1	–	–	6
Blood pressureMetabolic and weight	5	–	–	–	5
Heart functionCardiovascular	5	–	–	–	5
NeuroprotectionNervous system and cognition	3	–	2	–	5
Sex hormones and fertilityReproductive and sexual health	5	–	–	–	5
Immune responseImmune and inflammation	3	–	1	–	4
Antiviral activityInfection	3	–	–	–	3
Body compositionMetabolic and weight	2	–	–	–	2
Kidney functionKidney and urinary	2	–	–	–	2
PainNervous system and cognition	–	2	–	–	2
PharmacokineticsPharmacology	1	–	–	–	1
Tumor growthCancer	1	–	–	–	1
All outcome groups	289	43	16	–	348

Outcome group	Human	Animal	Lab	Computer model	Total
Receptor activity and mechanismSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 91 results from 32 studies: 28 increase, 34 decrease, 9 no significant change, 20 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 73 results from 36 studies: 25 increase, 19 decrease, 2 no significant change, 1 mixed, 26 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	164
Inflammation markersSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 75 results from 27 studies: 6 increase, 66 decrease, 3 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 18 results from 10 studies: 3 increase, 15 decrease. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	93
Mitochondrial functionRespiratory	No results	Animal: 36 results from 21 studies: 20 increase, 10 decrease, 1 no significant change, 2 mixed, 3 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 51 results from 22 studies: 22 increase, 16 decrease, 7 no significant change, 6 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	87
Heart functionCardiovascular	No results	Animal: 37 results from 15 studies: 15 increase, 18 decrease, 3 no significant change, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 10 results from 3 studies: 4 increase, 6 decrease. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	47
Muscle injury and repairMusculoskeletal	No results	Animal: 29 results from 8 studies: 7 increase, 13 decrease, 5 no significant change, 4 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 15 results from 5 studies: 7 increase, 5 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	44
Glycemic controlMusculoskeletal	No results	Animal: 19 results from 12 studies: 6 increase, 10 decrease, 3 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 13 results from 4 studies: 4 increase, 4 decrease, 3 no significant change, 2 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	32
NeuroprotectionNervous system and cognition	No results	Animal: 21 results from 4 studies: 9 increase, 9 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 10 results from 4 studies: 2 increase, 2 decrease, 1 no significant change, 4 mixed, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	31
Bone and jointMusculoskeletal	No results	Animal: 5 results from 4 studies: 4 decrease, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 15 results from 5 studies: 8 increase, 4 decrease, 3 not reported. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	20
Oxidative stressRespiratory	No results	Animal: 11 results from 4 studies: 8 increase, 3 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 4 results from 2 studies: 1 increase, 3 decrease. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	15
Liver fat and liver functionLiver	No results	Animal: 14 results from 4 studies: 2 increase, 11 decrease, 1 no significant change. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	14
PainNervous system and cognition	No results	Animal: 13 results from 5 studies: 11 decrease, 1 no significant change, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	13
Body weightWhole body	No results	Animal: 10 results from 8 studies: 6 decrease, 4 no significant change. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	10

Outcome group	Human	Animal	Lab	Computer model	All
Mitochondrial functionWhole body	111	29	3	–	143
Aging markersReproductive and sexual health	33	1	1	–	35
Exercise and physical functionWhole body	21	4	–	–	25
Cardiovascular eventsKidney and urinary	23	–	–	–	23
Endogenous peptide levelsRespiratory	17	–	1	–	18
Glycemic controlMetabolic and weight	15	–	1	–	16
Receptor activity and mechanismMusculoskeletal	1	3	7	–	11
Liver fat and liver functionLiver	6	3	–	–	9
Body weightMetabolic and weight	7	–	–	–	7
Cognition and memoryNervous system and cognition	7	–	–	–	7
LipidsMetabolic and weight	7	–	–	–	7
Inflammation markersRespiratory	6	–	–	–	6
Muscle injury and repairMusculoskeletal	5	1	–	–	6
Blood pressureMetabolic and weight	5	–	–	–	5
Heart functionCardiovascular	5	–	–	–	5
NeuroprotectionNervous system and cognition	3	–	2	–	5
Sex hormones and fertilityReproductive and sexual health	5	–	–	–	5
Immune responseImmune and inflammation	3	–	1	–	4
Antiviral activityInfection	3	–	–	–	3
Body compositionMetabolic and weight	2	–	–	–	2
Kidney functionKidney and urinary	2	–	–	–	2
PainNervous system and cognition	–	2	–	–	2
PharmacokineticsPharmacology	1	–	–	–	1
Tumor growthCancer	1	–	–	–	1
All outcome groups	289	43	16	–	348

MOTS-c studies and research data

MOTS-c identity

Targets

Sequence and structure

Sequence

Properties

Net charge by pH

Composition

3D structure

2D structure

Helical wheel

MOTS-c results by year and outcome

What the studies measured

MOTS-c studies on receptors and cell signals

MOTS-c studies on immune system and inflammation

MOTS-c studies on cells, genes and aging

MOTS-c studies on heart and blood vessels

MOTS-c studies on muscles and tendons

MOTS-c studies on brain and nerves

MOTS-c studies on blood sugar

MOTS-c studies on liver

MOTS-c studies on weight and appetite

MOTS-c studies on pain

MOTS-c studies on sex hormones and fertility

MOTS-c studies on daily life and fitness

MOTS-c studies on side effects

MOTS-c studies on bones and joints

MOTS-c studies on hormones

MOTS-c studies on memory and thinking

MOTS-c studies on stomach and gut

MOTS-c studies on kidneys and bladder

MOTS-c studies on metabolism and nutrition

MOTS-c studies on skin, hair and wounds

MOTS-c studies on survival and serious illness

MOTS-c studies on infections

MOTS-c studies on cholesterol and blood fats

MOTS-c studies on mood, stress and behavior

MOTS-c studies on lungs and breathing

MOTS-c studies on blood levels and clearance

MOTS-c studies on cancer

MOTS-c trials

MOTS-c for Improving Insulin Sensitivity in Adults With Prediabetes and Overweight/Obesity

Papers

Studies with results

The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance.

The Mitochondrial-Encoded Peptide MOTS-c Translocates to the Nucleus to Regulate Nuclear Gene Expression in Response to Metabolic Stress.

MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline and muscle homeostasis.

Mitochondrial peptides modulate mitochondrial function during cellular senescence.

SARS-CoV-2 and Mitochondrial Proteins in Neural-Derived Exosomes of COVID-19.

Abnormal levels of mitochondrial proteins in plasma neuronal extracellular vesicles in major depressive disorder.

Mitochondrial-Derived Peptides Are Down Regulated in Diabetes Subjects.

Downregulation of circulating MOTS-c levels in patients with coronary endothelial dysfunction.

Mitohormesis in Hypothalamic POMC Neurons Mediates Regular Exercise-Induced High-Turnover Metabolism.

Circulating MOTS-c levels are decreased in obese male children and adolescents and associated with insulin resistance.

Mitochondria related peptide MOTS-c suppresses ovariectomy-induced bone loss via AMPK activation.

MOTS-c peptide regulates adipose homeostasis to prevent ovariectomy-induced metabolic dysfunction.

MOTS-c interacts synergistically with exercise intervention to regulate PGC-1α expression, attenuate insulin resistance and enhance glucose metabolism in mice via AMPK signaling pathway.

MOTS-c peptide increases survival and decreases bacterial load in mice infected with MRSA.

Reduced skeletal muscle expression of mitochondrial-derived peptides humanin and MOTS-C and Nrf2 in chronic kidney disease.

MOTS-c inhibits Osteolysis in the Mouse Calvaria by affecting osteocyte-osteoclast crosstalk and inhibiting inflammation.

MOTS-c reduces myostatin and muscle atrophy signaling.

MOTS-c: A novel mitochondrial-derived peptide regulating muscle and fat metabolism.

Mitochondrially derived peptides as novel regulators of metabolism.

Mitochondrial-derived peptides in energy metabolism.

Mitochondria-derived peptides in aging and healthspan.

The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c: a player in exceptional longevity?

The role of mitochondria-derived peptides in cardiovascular disease: Recent updates.

Mitochondrial-derived peptides in aging and age-related diseases.

Peptides derived from small mitochondrial open reading frames: Genomic, biological, and therapeutic implications.

Newer studies

MOTS-c studies: 176 papers with results

Regulatory and safety

Animal evidence· 11

Lab evidence· 1

Doses studied · 30

Data and API

Peptide

Latest changes

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