In short
A 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA, studied for metabolism. A 2023 review says no effective clinical method of using it has been developed. Health Canada lists it among seized unauthorized peptides.
Also known asmitochondrial-derived peptide
CategoryLongevity
Canada statusNot authorized in Canada
Human evidence Very limited: almost all animal or cell studies
Last reviewedNovember 10, 2026
How strong is the human evidence?
- Cell & animal
- Small human studies
- Some randomized trials
- Large randomized trials
What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide whose blood levels fall with age. In animal studies it improved glucose metabolism in muscle (Zheng et al. 2023 review).
Is MOTS-c legal in Canada?
Not authorized. Named by Health Canada among unauthorized peptides and seized injectables.
What the research shows
- Animal and cell studies on metabolism, insulin resistance and ageing.
What it doesn't show
- No human trials showing benefits; the 2023 review says no effective method of applying MOTS-c clinically has been developed.
Common questions
Is MOTS-c legal in Canada?
No. Health Canada lists it among seized unauthorized peptides.
Does MOTS-c help weight loss?
Animal data only; no human trials showing weight loss.
Sources
- Health Canada — Peptides: Overview
- Health Canada advisory RA-81874 (Apr 9, 2026): Think twice before injecting peptides bought online
- Zheng Y et al. MOTS-c: a promising mitochondrial-derived peptide for therapeutic exploitation. Front Endocrinol 2023
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