MOTS-c regulates metabolic functions throughout the body, including turning glucose into usable energy. Preliminary studies show evidence for improved control over blood sugar levels for those with type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Research also shows that skeletal muscle is the major target tissue of MOTS‐c. The skeletal muscle enhances insulin sensitivity and increases glucose uptake in myocytes (muscle cells) by activating the AMPK pathway and at the same time without increasing insulin. It is fair to call MOTS‐c an exercise‐mimetic, meaning it imitates exercise on the body. Exercise also increases muscle glucose uptake without stimulating insulin.

AMPK (AMP‐activated protein kinase), was identified in 1999 as the master switch for metabolism and the central regulator of both glucose and lipid (fat) metabolism. Since then it has been a target for therapeutic intervention against metabolic conditions such as type‐2 diabetes.