Doctor-Led Longevity & Cellular Health

Mitochondrial Peptides: MOTS-c & SS-31
in South Africa

MOTS-c and SS-31 are advanced peptides that work at the level of your mitochondria, the parts of your cells that produce energy. They are used in longevity and cellular-health protocols to support energy, metabolism and resilience against age-related decline. At mobivIVe, doctor-reviewed mitochondrial peptides are supplied as prefilled pens from R3,299, delivered nationwide across South Africa. Below is what they do, who they suit, what they cost, and how to get started with our doctor-led team.

What they do. MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide often described as an “exercise mimetic”: published research points to a role in activating metabolic pathways (AMPK) and improving insulin sensitivity and fat metabolism. SS-31 (elamipretide) is a mitochondria-targeted peptide that stabilises the inner mitochondrial membrane and reduces oxidative stress, and has been studied in clinical research for age-related decline in muscle and stamina.

An honest note on the evidence. These are among the more advanced peptides, and the human evidence is still emerging: MOTS-c research is largely preclinical, while SS-31 (elamipretide) has been through clinical trials for mitochondrial conditions. They are best understood as support within a broader, doctor-guided longevity programme, not as a treatment for any disease, and they suit people who already have their foundations (sleep, nutrition, training) in place.

Want the detail first? Read our full guide: What are MOTS-c & SS-31?

How to start, in 3 simple steps

  1. Message us on WhatsApp. Tell our doctor-led team your goal.
  2. Medical questionnaire. Complete a short questionnaire, reviewed by our registered doctor. A consultation is arranged when your screening calls for one. If it is safe and suitable, a script is issued.
  3. Delivered to your door. Your prefilled pen is couriered anywhere in South Africa, with clear dosing instructions.

Who they suit. Mitochondrial peptides appeal to people focused on longevity, energy and metabolic health who already have the basics in place and want a more advanced protocol under medical guidance. Our doctor screens for anything that needs extra care and asks about your history and current medicines. Tell us if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have an active cancer, so it can be checked before anything is dispensed.

MOTS-c & SS-31 options & pricing

Price: R3,299 (incl. VAT)

Strength: 10mg/0.6ml (2.4ml pen) – 40mg total

Approx. doses: 8 doses at 5mg

What it is

MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that acts as an “exercise mimetic”, helping cells use fat and glucose more efficiently and improving metabolic flexibility. It activates key energy pathways that are also triggered by training and calorie restriction, making it attractive for clients wanting better performance, fat-loss support and healthy ageing at the cellular level.

Used for

  • Improving insulin sensitivity and blood-sugar handling
  • Supporting fat-loss and endurance training results
  • Enhancing resilience to metabolic stress (e.g. heavy workloads, travel)
  • Longevity and mitochondrial-health programmes
  • Clients who train but struggle with energy and recovery

Price: R3,699 (incl. VAT)

Strength: 10mg/0.6ml (2.4ml pen) – 40mg total

Approx. doses: 8 doses at 5mg

What it is

SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a mitochondria-targeting peptide that binds to and stabilises cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, helping restore efficient energy production and reduce oxidative stress. It’s aimed at clients with deep, persistent fatigue, age-related decline in stamina, or high-stress lifestyles where mitochondrial function takes strain, and is often used as part of advanced longevity and performance protocols.

Used for

  • Chronic low energy and poor stamina despite rest
  • High-demand lifestyles and intensive training schedules
  • Age-related decline in recovery and resilience
  • Support in mitochondrial-focused and longevity programmes
  • Clients already optimising lifestyle who want deeper cellular support

Frequently asked questions

MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide, meaning it is encoded within the mitochondria themselves. It is often called an “exercise mimetic” because published research links it to activating metabolic pathways such as AMPK, supporting insulin sensitivity, glucose handling and fat metabolism. The evidence is largely preclinical, so it is used as support under medical guidance.

SS-31, also known as elamipretide, is a peptide that targets the inner membrane of the mitochondria and helps stabilise it and reduce oxidative stress. Unlike many peptides, it has been studied in clinical research, including for age-related decline in skeletal muscle and stamina. It is used to support cellular energy and resilience.

They both target the mitochondria but in different ways. MOTS-c acts more like a metabolic signal, nudging the body toward the effects of exercise and better metabolism. SS-31 works structurally, helping the mitochondria function correctly and resist oxidative stress. Some people use them as part of the same longevity programme under doctor guidance.

They suit people focused on longevity, energy and metabolic health who already have their foundations in place (sleep, nutrition, training) and want a more advanced, medically-guided protocol. They are generally not a starting point for someone new to peptides. Suitability is confirmed by our doctor during screening.

At mobivIVe, doctor-reviewed mitochondrial peptides start from R3,299 per prefilled pen, with MOTS-c and SS-31 available. Yes, they are dispensed on a valid medical script after a questionnaire reviewed by our registered doctor, with a consultation arranged when your screening calls for one.

Medically reviewed by Dr Chris van Zyl This page was written and reviewed by mobivIVe’s medical team, led by Dr Chris van Zyl, an HPCSA-registered medical doctor (registered as M.C. van Zyl, HPCSA reg. no. MP0287067) who is licensed to both prescribe and dispense medicines under a Section 22C dispensing licence. Last reviewed August 2026. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease; individual results vary. Consult your healthcare provider.