Mice given MOTS-c burned more sugar for energy and produced more body heat—even though they didn’t move around more than the control mice.
Scientific Claim
In mice, MOTS-c treatment increased respiratory exchange ratio and heat production, indicating a shift toward greater glucose utilization and elevated energy expenditure, independent of physical activity levels.
Original Statement
“MOTS-c treated mice also generated significantly more heat that may, in part, account for the increased energy expenditure... MOTS-c treated mice showed increased respiratory exchange ratio (RER)... Total activity was comparable between the 2 groups.”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
overstated
Study Design Support
Design cannot support claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study uses language implying causation ('increased energy expenditure') but lacks human data or randomized controls. Only an associative interpretation is valid.
More Accurate Statement
“In mice, MOTS-c treatment was associated with an increased respiratory exchange ratio and higher heat production, indicating a shift toward greater glucose utilization and elevated energy expenditure, independent of physical activity levels.”
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 stay healthy and not get fat, but it never measured if they burned more energy or used more sugar like the claim says.