MOTS-c vs AICAR: Research Comparison
A Side-By-Side Research Comparison Of MOTS-c And AICAR - two AMPK-associated mitochondrial and metabolic research compounds. This Reference Compares Mechanism, Evidence Tier, Molecular Identity, And Pharmacokinetics For Qualified Researchers. For In Vitro Laboratory Research Use Only. Not Medical Advice Or Dosing Guidance.
Side-By-Side Comparison
| MOTS-c | AICAR | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Weight Loss & Metabolism | Weight Loss & Metabolism |
| Compound Class | Mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within 12S rRNA of mitochondrial genome | Purine nucleoside analog; cell-permeable AMPK activator (converted intracellularly to ZMP) |
| Evidence Tier | Research Compound | Research Compound |
| Molecular Target | AMPK activation; folate-methionine cycle; AICAR-independent AMPK signaling; nuclear translocation for gene expression regulation | AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation via ZMP (AMP mimetic); PGC-1alpha upregulation; GLUT4 translocation; mitochondrial biogenesis |
| Molecular Weight | 2174.6 Da | 258.23 Da |
| Amino Acid Sequence | MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR | small molecule nucleoside |
| CAS Number | 1627580-64-6 | 2627-69-2 |
| Half-Life | ~30 minutes | ~2 hours |
| Studied For | Metabolic homeostasis, Insulin resistance / obesity, Exercise-mimetic research, AMPK activation | AMPK / metabolic-stress research, Insulin-resistance models, Endurance research, Exercise mimetic |
About MOTS-c
A mitochondrial exercise-mimetic peptide; banned in sport since 2024, mostly preclinical.
Read The Full MOTS-c MonographAbout AICAR
An exercise-mimetic AMPK activator; banned in sport, mostly preclinical.
Read The Full AICAR MonographKey Differences
- Reported half-life differs: MOTS-c at ~30 minutes versus AICAR at ~2 hours.
- Primary molecular target differs: MOTS-c acts on AMPK activation; folate-methionine cycle; AICAR-independent AMPK signaling; nuclear translocation for gene expression regulation; AICAR acts on AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation via ZMP (AMP mimetic); PGC-1alpha upregulation; GLUT4 translocation; mitochondrial biogenesis.
Continue Researching
This Comparison Is Provided For In Vitro Laboratory Research Use Only. Not For Human Consumption, Diagnosis, Or Treatment. See The Full Research Disclaimer.