MOTS-c vs P21
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- MOTS-c is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the mitochondrial genome. It acts as a metabolic regulator, improving insulin sensitivity, enhancing exercise capacity, and counteracting age-related metabolic decline. It is often called a 'mitochondrial hormone.'
- P21 is a synthetic peptide derived from CNTF (ciliary neurotrophic factor) that promotes hippocampal neurogenesis, enhances memory and spatial learning, and may reduce amyloid-beta pathology. It is used as a neurogenic and cognitive enhancer with potential anti-Alzheimer's applications.
- Half-Life
- Estimated 1–2 hours
- Not well characterized; likely short, but neurogenic effects persist long after administration
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ, Intranasal
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 5–15 mg
- 100–500 mcg
- Frequency
- 3–5 times per week
- Once daily
- Key Benefits
- Improves insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
- Enhances exercise capacity and endurance
- Reduces age-related metabolic decline
- Activates AMPK — the master metabolic regulator
- Promotes fat oxidation
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- May extend healthspan via mitochondrial optimization
- Increases energy and reduces fatigue
- Promotes hippocampal neurogenesis
- Enhances spatial memory and learning
- Increases BDNF expression
- Reduces amyloid-beta plaque formation (animal models)
- Anti-tau pathology potential
- Cognitive enhancement without stimulant effects
- Potential therapeutic for Alzheimer's and cognitive aging
- Side Effects
- Injection site irritation
- Fatigue during initial adaptation
- Unknown long-term profile (limited human data)
- Generally well tolerated in animal studies
- Limited human clinical data
- Injection site reactions
- Potential mild fatigue at initiation
- Stacks With
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