MOTS-c (20 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
Reconstitution and daily-dosing guide for the 20 mg MOTS-c vial — a mitochondrial-derived peptide studied for metabolic regulation through AMPK activation. The larger vial is prepared at 5 mg/mL for precise small-dose measuring and longer research runs.
Quickstart Highlights
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c) is a 16–amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome. Research studies it as a regulator of metabolic homeostasis: it activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) — the cell's master energy sensor — to promote glucose uptake, fatty-acid oxidation, and efficient energy production. Because it reproduces several effects of physical activity, it is frequently described as an "exercise mimetic."
- Reconstitute: Add 4.0 mL bacteriostatic water → 5 mg/mL concentration
- Typical dosing: ~250 mcg–1 mg daily (subcutaneous), titrated upward
- Easy measuring: At 5 mg/mL, 1 unit = 0.01 mL = 50 mcg on a U-100 insulin syringe
- Storage: Lyophilized: freeze at −20 °C (−4 °F); after reconstitution, refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F) and use within 2–4 weeks
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Educational guide for reconstitution and daily subcutaneous dosing
Subcutaneous Protocol (20 mg vial, 4 mL = 5 mg/mL)
| Phase | Daily Dose (mcg) | Units (per injection) (mL) |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–2 | 250 mcg once daily | 5 units (0.05 mL) |
| Weeks 3–4 | 500 mcg once daily | 10 units (0.10 mL) |
| Weeks 5–10+ | 1000 mcg once daily | 20 units (0.20 mL) |
Frequency: Inject once daily subcutaneously. MOTS-c drives AMPK signaling with consistent daily administration and gradual titration over several weeks. Note: A single 20 mg vial provides roughly 20–80 days of research material depending on the daily dose.
Reconstitution Steps
- Remove the vial from freezer storage (−20 °C / −4 °F) and allow to equilibrate at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
- Draw 4.0 mL bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the vial wall; avoid foaming.
- Gently swirl/roll until dissolved—solution should be clear (do not shake).
- Label and refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F), protected from light; use within 2–4 weeks.
How This Works
MOTS-c acts primarily through activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), the central sensor of cellular energy status. AMPK activation shifts metabolism toward glucose uptake and fatty-acid oxidation, supporting balanced energy production within the mitochondria.
Under metabolic or oxidative stress, MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus and helps regulate adaptive, antioxidant gene-expression programs. Preclinical research links these actions to improved insulin sensitivity and metabolic flexibility, including in models of age-related metabolic decline.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Observations from preclinical and early research literature.
- May support insulin sensitivity and metabolic regulation
- Associated with enhanced fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial function
- Potential to support metabolic homeostasis during aging
- Generally well tolerated; limited human data available, preclinical compound
- Mitochondrial peptide with preclinical research in metabolism
Injection Technique
General subcutaneous guidance from clinical best-practice resources.
- Clean the vial stopper and skin with alcohol; allow to dry.
- Pinch a skinfold; insert the needle at 45–90° into subcutaneous tissue.
- Do not aspirate for subcutaneous injections; inject slowly and steadily.
- Rotate sites systematically (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) to avoid lipohypertrophy.
- Slow, steady injection improves comfort and dosing consistency.
Important Notes
Practical considerations for consistency and safety.
- Use new sterile insulin syringes for each administration; dispose in a sharps container.
- Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) to reduce local irritation.
- Inject slowly and rotate sites; MOTS-c is generally well tolerated with minimal injection-site discomfort.
- Document daily dose and site rotation to maintain consistency.
- The 20 mg vial format supports longer research protocols or higher daily doses from a single reconstitution.
Important Disclaimer: This content is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This is not medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new research protocol.
References
Lee C, et al. The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance View Source
Reynolds JC, et al. MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline and muscle homeostasis View Source
Kim KH, Son JM, et al. The mitochondrial-encoded peptide MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus to regulate nuclear gene expression in response to metabolic stress View Source