MOTS-c vs Syn-Coll
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-Coll is a palmitoylated tripeptide (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5) that mimics thrombospondin-1 to activate TGF-beta, the primary growth factor driving collagen synthesis in the dermis. It is one of the most mechanistically direct collagen-stimulating peptides in cosmetic formulations.
- Half-Life
- Estimated 1–2 hours
- Extended (lipid depot in stratum corneum)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 5–15 mg
- 0.005-0.05% in formulation
- Frequency
- 3–5 times per week
- Once or 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
- Directly activates TGF-beta for potent collagen synthesis stimulation
- Increases dermal thickness and firmness
- Reduces depth of wrinkles and fine lines
- Improves skin elasticity
- Clinically validated in collagen induction studies
- Complementary to retinoids or vitamin C
- Side Effects
- Injection site irritation
- Fatigue during initial adaptation
- Unknown long-term profile (limited human data)
- Generally well-tolerated
- Rare mild irritation at high concentrations
- Possible sensitivity in individuals with inflammatory skin conditions
- Stacks With
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