Comparison
MOTS-c vs. Semax
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
1627580-64-6
80714-61-0
Molecular weight
2174.61 g/mol
813.92 g/mol
Half-life
no data
0.3 h
Sequence
Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-ArgMet-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-ProMechanism of action
MOTS-c
MOTS-c arises from a short open reading frame located in the 12S rRNA region of the mitochondrial genome — unlike most peptides it is therefore not encoded by nuclear DNA. Mechanistically, preclinical work describes MOTS-c as modulating the folate cycle and the de novo purine biosynthesis tethered to it, thereby affecting the AMP/ATP ratio and, downstream, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Under metabolic stress, an AMPK-dependent translocation of the peptide into the cell nucleus and involvement in the regulation of stress-responsive genes (including via antioxidant-response-element-regulated transcription factors) have also been reported. These models derive predominantly from cell culture and rodents; the extent to which they reflect human physiology after administration of exogenous synthetic MOTS-c is not established by human studies.
Semax
Semax is a tetracosactide fragment analog without hormonal activity at MC2R. Proposed mechanisms include elevation of BDNF and NGF in hippocampus and striatum (in animal models), modulation of dopamine metabolism, and neuroprotective effects via anti-apoptotic pathways. A clear primary receptor is not established.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human trial
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
1
2
Effects recorded
4
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between MOTS-c and Semax?
- MOTS-c is classified as "Research other", while Semax is classified as "Research other". MOTS-c: MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-encoded peptide (mitochondrial-derived peptide, MDP) whose open reading frame lies within the 12S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA. In basic research (including the laboratories of Changhan Lee and Pinchas Cohen) it is described as a regulator of metabolic homeostasis and an activator of the AMPK pathway, and is sometimes discussed as an 'exercise mimetic'. The evidence comes almost entirely from cell and animal models; controlled human trials of MOTS-c as a therapeutic are lacking. It is not approved as a medicine anywhere and is traded on the grey market as a research chemical. Semax: Synthetic heptapeptide derived from the N-terminal fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH 4-10). Approved in Russia for ischaemic stroke, cognitive function and ADHD in children. Western phase-3 trials absent. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, MOTS-c or Semax?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for MOTS-c and "Human trial" for Semax. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of MOTS-c and Semax in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: MOTS-c — Unapproved, Semax — Unapproved. United States: MOTS-c — Unapproved, Semax — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.