After a week of MOTS-c injections, mice could process insulin better, needing 30% more glucose to keep blood sugar stable during a test.
Scientific Claim
In C57BL/6 mice, 7 days of MOTS-c treatment (5 mg/kg/day) was associated with a 30% higher glucose infusion rate during hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp, a measure of whole-body insulin sensitivity.
Original Statement
“MOTS-c improved whole body insulin sensitivity as reflected by a ∼30% increase in the exogenous glucose infusion rate (GIR) required to maintain euglycemia during insulin stimulation (Figure 5B).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
overstated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study uses causal language ('improved') but the design is limited to mice and cell lines, which cannot establish causation in humans. The claim should reflect association only.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (0)
Contradicting (1)
The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance
The study says MOTS-c helps mice better use insulin, but it doesn’t say exactly how much, for how long, or in which mice — so we can’t confirm the specific numbers in the claim.