Science1 week ago 5 min read
MOTS-c and exercise: how a mitochondrial peptide may amplify training adaptations
A new review summarizes evidence on MOTS-c as an exercise mimetic.
by Editorial team
What MOTS-c is
MOTS-c is a small peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA and involved in metabolic regulation.
Its levels rise with exercise and decline with age.
The evidence
Animal studies show MOTS-c administration improves insulin sensitivity and exercise capacity, even without training.
Human data is limited to small observational studies linking endogenous levels to fitness markers.
Open questions
No approved formulation exists for human therapeutic use.
Dosing, route, and long-term safety remain undefined.