MOTS-C

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open-Reading-Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a novel 16-amino acid mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) expressed in both tissues and plasma. Often referred to as a "mitokine" or mitochondrial hormone, it is one of only two mitochondrial-derived peptides studied to date alongside Humanin. Research suggests MOTS-c may act primarily by stimulating the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, with the ability to translocate to cellular nuclei under metabolic stress and alter gene expression. Levels appear to decline with age, linking it to age-related metabolic dysfunction and cellular aging.

Chemical Makeup Molecular Formula: C101H152N28O22S2 | Molecular Weight: 2174.64 g/mol | Also known as: Mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c

Research Highlights

• Muscle Metabolism — Research suggests MOTS-c may improve skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity via AMPK activation, potentially increasing glucose transporter expression and enhancing muscle metabolism, functioning, and growth — effects that may decline with age-related insulin resistance.
• Fat Cell Metabolism — Studies in high-fat diet murine models indicate MOTS-c may inhibit the folate-methionine cycle, activate AMPK, and promote glucose utilization — with peptide-exposed models appearing leaner and more energetic, suggesting a potential role in preventing diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance.
• Bone Health — MOTS-c may upregulate TGF-β/Smad pathway-related genes and osteogenesis markers including ALP, Bglap, and Runx2, potentially stimulating osteoblast differentiation and supporting bone density and strength.
• Cardiac & Vascular Function — Rather than directly influencing cardiac tissue, research points to MOTS-c's potential effect on vascular endothelial cells, with observed positive correlations between peptide levels and microvascular function, possibly mediated through AMPK activation.
• Cell Longevity — Research suggests MOTS-c may interact with known aging regulators including NAD+ and sirtuins, hinting at involvement in pathways that modulate cellular lifespan. Physical activity may also boost endogenous MOTS-c expression, potentially enhancing its metabolic effects.

Available for research and laboratory purposes only.