Weight & metabolism
MOTS-c
Mitochondrial-derived peptide
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA that researchers study as a signal involved in metabolism. It is not an approved drug, and its effects as a treatment have not been tested in published human trials.
Key facts
- Commonly discussed for: metabolic health, insulin sensitivity and exercise capacity.
- Evidence (D): The foundational 2015 Cell Metabolism study was in mice, and a 2023 review notes no effective clinical method for using MOTS-c has been developed. Human studies so far measure natural blood levels rather than test it as a treatment.
- FDA status: PCAC recommended. On July 23, 2026 the PCAC voted 7-5 (2 abstentions) to recommend MOTS-c for the 503A Bulks List for obesity and osteoporosis; FDA must still publish a proposed rule; none appeared in the Federal Register as of October 1, 2026.
- Legitimate access: No clear legal route yet.
- Last reviewed: October 1, 2026.
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Open my stack →Sources
- Lee et al. The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance. Cell Metab, 2015
- Zheng et al. MOTS-c: A promising mitochondrial-derived peptide for therapeutic exploitation. Front Endocrinol, 2023
- McDermott Will & Schulte: PCAC backs majority of peptides in two-day public meeting (July 2026)
- Federal Register notice of PCAC meeting and uses under review (April 16, 2026)