Use of an active ingredient (I) obtained from hydrolyzed maize ( Zea mays L.), in a cosmetic composition or for preparing a pharmaceutical composition comprising (I) or composition to activate cytochrome c and stimulate mitochondria, is claimed. ACTIVITY : Dermatological; Muscular-Gen; Neuroprotective; Cardiant; Antidiabetic; Nootropic. MECHANISM OF ACTION : Cytochrome c activator.