MOTS-c vs Syn-Ake
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.'
- Syn-Ake is a synthetic tripeptide that mimics waglerin-1, a peptide found in the venom of the Temple viper (Tropidolaemus wagleri). It acts as a reversible antagonist of muscular nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, temporarily reducing facial muscle contraction and smoothing dynamic wrinkles. Often called a 'synthetic Botox' in cosmetic marketing.
- Half-Life
- Estimated 1–2 hours
- Not applicable (topical; effect duration hours)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 5–15 mg
- 0.01–0.1% (4–8 mg/g in clinical studies)
- Frequency
- 3–5 times per week
- Twice 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
- Reduces depth of dynamic wrinkles and expression lines
- Reversible muscle-relaxing effect on facial muscles
- Smooths forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines
- Non-invasive alternative to injectable neurotoxins
- Rapid onset relative to collagen-stimulating peptides
- Well-studied in in vitro and clinical cosmetic trials
- Side Effects
- Injection site irritation
- Fatigue during initial adaptation
- Unknown long-term profile (limited human data)
- Generally very well-tolerated topically
- Rare skin sensitivity or contact dermatitis
- Theoretical neuromuscular effects at systemic doses (not relevant topically)
- Stacks With
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