MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a small, 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in your cell's mitochondria, acting as a crucial metabolic signaling molecule that regulates energy, insulin sensitivity, and muscle function by activating AMPK, protecting against obesity, and improving glucose uptake, with research showing potential for anti-aging and metabolic health, though it's still considered experimental and not FDA-approved.  

Key Functions & Mechanisms

• Metabolic Regulation:

  Stimulates skeletal muscle glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation, improving insulin sensitivity and preventing insulin resistance. 

• Mitochondrial Signaling:

  Communicates with the nucleus to coordinate cellular responses to stress and energy demand. 

• AMPK Activation:

  Activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a master energy sensor, leading to improved cellular energy balance. 

• Tissue-Specific Effects:

  Can suppress inflammation and affect bone metabolism, with effects varying by tissue, such as activating CK2 in muscle but suppressing it in fat. 

Potential Applications & Research

• Obesity & Diabetes: Prevents diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance in animal models.

• Aging: Protects against age-related metabolic decline and muscle loss (sarcopenia).

• Exercise Performance: Upregulated by exercise and improves physical performance.

• Bone Health: Promotes bone formation and remodeling. 

Important Considerations

• Experimental Status: Currently experimental, not a standard treatment, and not FDA-approved. 

• Safety: Purchasing from unregulated sources is risky; consult a doctor before use, notes this YouTube video and this Innerbody article. 

• Contraindications: Avoid if you have cancer, are pregnant, or take certain AMPK-activating drugs like metformin, notes this Innerbody article.