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This is plain-language harm-reduction information, not medical advice. Peptides discussed here are research compounds; most are not approved for human use. People will use them either way — we would rather they have the facts.
What it is
MOTS-c is unusual because it is one of the few peptides encoded in mitochondrial DNA rather than nuclear DNA. Your body makes it naturally.
It is described in research as an "exercise mimetic" — animals given MOTS-c show improvements in insulin sensitivity, fat metabolism and endurance.
History
Discovered in 2015 by Pinchas Cohen's lab at USC. One of the newer peptides on the market.
How it works
Translocates to the cell nucleus under metabolic stress and turns on genes that improve glucose handling and mitochondrial efficiency.
Dosage
- 5–10 mg, 2–3 times weekly.
- Cycle 6–12 weeks on, 4 weeks off.
How it is taken
- Subcutaneous belly injection with an insulin pin.
How to reconstitute
- 10 mg vial with 2 ml BAC water = 5 mg/ml. A 5 mg dose is 100 units on a 1 ml insulin syringe.
How it should arrive
White powder, sealed vial.
How it should look once reconstituted
Clear colourless solution.
What to expect, and when
- Energy and endurance: 2–4 weeks.
- Body composition changes: 6–12 weeks.
- Blood sugar improvements: 4–8 weeks.
Side effects
- Generally well tolerated.
- Occasional injection-site warmth.
- Some users report transient fatigue early on.
Risks
- Limited long-term human data — this is one of the youngest peptides in common use.
- WADA prohibited.
Potential gains
- Improved insulin sensitivity.
- Enhanced fat oxidation.
- Endurance improvements in animal models and anecdotally in users.
Other useful information
Stacks well with GLP-1 drugs for metabolic recomposition protocols. Costs more per cycle than most peptides.
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