MOTS-c Research Overview: Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide and Metabolic Pathways

For in-vitro and laboratory research only. Information below summarizes published preclinical literature for educational and laboratory-supply context.

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading frame of the Twelve S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA — one of the first identified members of a class of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs). Published research has focused on its role as a regulator of cellular metabolism. Available as MOTS-c 10mg lyophilized.

Structure and origin

MOTS-c is encoded by a small open reading frame inside mtDNA, not the nuclear genome — an unusual feature that makes it a member of the still-emerging mitochondrial-peptide field. The 16–amino-acid sequence is conserved across mammals, suggesting functional importance. Molecular weight is approximately 2174 Da.

Mechanisms studied in published literature

• AMPK pathway activation. The most-cited mechanism in MOTS-c literature is activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), the central cellular energy sensor, with downstream effects on glucose uptake and fatty-acid oxidation.
• Insulin sensitivity. Rodent metabolic-syndrome models have reported improvements in insulin sensitivity after MOTS-c administration.
• Folate cycle interaction. Published mechanistic work describes interaction with the methionine-folate cycle, contributing to the metabolic-regulator framing of the peptide.
• Exercise physiology. A subset of the literature reports MOTS-c as an "exercise-mimetic" in animal models, with effects overlapping endurance-training adaptations.

Common research-model applications

• High-fat-diet rodent metabolic-syndrome models
• Skeletal-muscle glucose-uptake assays in C2C12 cell culture
• Mitochondrial-respiration assays (Seahorse, Oroboros) in primary cells

Handling and storage

MOTS-c ships lyophilized. Standard peptide storage applies — see our peptide storage guide. The 16-residue sequence is moderately stable; aliquot reconstituted material before freezing to minimize freeze-thaw degradation.

Related research peptides

MOTS-c is often grouped with other metabolic-regulator research peptides in the literature, including 5-Amino-1MQ (an NNMT inhibitor) and NAD+ (the coenzyme central to mitochondrial redox). See our 5-Amino-1MQ research guide for the NNMT/NAD+ side of this story.

What to verify on the COA

• Sequence: 16 amino acids matching the published MOTS-c sequence (M-R-W-Q-E-M-G-Y-I-F-Y-P-R-K-L-R).
• Purity ≥98% by HPLC.
• Mass spec match for ~2174 Da.

See how to read a peptide COA for full field-level guidance.

Reminder: The information above is summarized from preclinical research literature for laboratory and educational purposes. Products are not intended for human consumption.