Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| Kisspeptin-10 | MOTS-c | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Peptides | Peptides |
| Standard Dose | Research indicates 1-10 mcg/kg via subcutaneous injection or IV bolus for acute HPG axis stimulation. | Research indicates 5-10 mg administered 3-5 times per week via subcutaneous injection. |
| Timing | Morning dosing preferred for testosterone optimization. Can be used acutely before sexual activity. | Morning administration preferred. Can be dosed pre-workout for enhanced exercise performance. |
| Cycle Duration | Short-term use only. Continuous kisspeptin administration may cause tachyphylaxis (desensitization) of the HPG axis. | 8-16 week cycles. |
| Evidence Level | moderate_human | Emerging (strong preclinical) |
Kisspeptin-10 is the 10-amino acid C-terminal fragment of the kisspeptin family that signals directly to GnRH neurons through the kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R/GPR54), triggering GnRH release into the portal circulation. This stimulates LH and FSH secretion from anterior pituitary gonadotrophs. In men, intravenous kisspeptin-10 produces rapid dose-dependent LH rises (4.1 to 12.4 IU/L at 1 mcg/kg within 30 minutes), increases LH pulse frequency and amplitude, and subsequently elevates testosterone through the HPG axis.
Research indicates 1-10 mcg/kg via subcutaneous injection or IV bolus for acute HPG axis stimulation.
Morning dosing preferred for testosterone optimization. Can be used acutely before sexual activity.
Short-term use only. Continuous kisspeptin administration may cause tachyphylaxis (desensitization) of the HPG axis.
MOTS-c is a 16-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by the 12S rRNA gene of the mitochondrial genome. It primarily acts through the folate-AICAR-AMPK pathway: by regulating the folate cycle and de novo purine biosynthesis, it increases AICAR accumulation, which phosphorylates and activates AMPK. This enhances glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, improves insulin sensitivity, and mimics exercise-mediated physiological responses. Skeletal muscle MOTS-c levels increase 11.9-fold in response to acute exercise in young men.
Research indicates 5-10 mg administered 3-5 times per week via subcutaneous injection.
Morning administration preferred. Can be dosed pre-workout for enhanced exercise performance.
8-16 week cycles.
Take our free assessment to get personalized recommendations based on your health goals, current stack, and biomarkers.
Get Your Free Protocol →or take the assessment →