When mice were given a daily shot of a peptide called MOTS-c, their bodies became better at using sugar for energy and responding to insulin, especially in their muscles.
Scientific Claim
In mice, daily intraperitoneal injection of MOTS-c (5 mg/kg/day) for 7 days improved glucose tolerance and increased insulin sensitivity, as evidenced by a 30% higher glucose infusion rate during hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp and enhanced skeletal muscle glucose uptake, suggesting a role in systemic metabolic regulation.
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... MOTS-c treatment significantly enhanced the insulin-stimulated glucose disposal rate (IS-GDR)... indicative of enhanced skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity.”
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 used animal models without human data or randomization, so causal language like 'improved' is inappropriate. Only an associative relationship can be claimed.
More Accurate Statement
“In mice, daily intraperitoneal injection of MOTS-c (5 mg/kg/day) for 7 days was associated with improved glucose tolerance and increased insulin sensitivity, as evidenced by a 30% higher glucose infusion rate during hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp and enhanced skeletal muscle glucose uptake.”
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance
The study shows that a tiny molecule from mitochondria, called MOTS-c, helps mice use sugar better and become less resistant to insulin, especially in their muscles—exactly what the claim says.