MOTS-C: The Mitochondrial Peptide Redefining Metabolic Research
For Research Purposes Only. Not intended for human consumption.
MOTS-C is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA region of the mitochondrial genome. Its discovery represented a significant development in the understanding of mitochondrial biology, as it demonstrated that the mitochondrial genome encodes bioactive peptides beyond those involved in the respiratory chain.
What Is MOTS-C?
MOTS-C (Mitochondrial Open reading frame of the Twelve S rRNA-c) was first described in a landmark 2015 paper published in Cell Metabolism. It is a 16 amino acid peptide that, unlike most mitochondrial gene products, is transported to the nucleus where it regulates gene expression related to metabolic processes. Its discovery opened a new area of research into mitochondria-to-nucleus communication.
Key Research Areas
Insulin sensitivity research has produced some of the most cited findings around MOTS-C. Studies in mouse models have examined its apparent ability to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake, with researchers investigating the mechanisms through which it affects glucose metabolism pathways.
AMPK activation research has examined MOTS-C’s effects on AMP-activated protein kinase, a master regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. Studies have observed AMPK activation following MOTS-C administration, generating interest in its role in energy sensing pathways.
Exercise response research has examined MOTS-C’s behavior in the context of physical activity, with studies noting that circulating MOTS-C levels change in response to exercise in animal models. This has prompted research into its potential role as an exercise-responsive metabolic signal.
Aging research has examined how MOTS-C levels change with age and whether exogenous administration affects markers of metabolic aging in preclinical models.
Research Specifications
Zyvara Labs MOTS-C is synthesized as a lyophilized powder with ≥99% purity verified by independent HPLC and mass spectrometry. Lot-specific COA available in our COA Library.
Disclaimer
This post summarizes publicly available preclinical research. MOTS-C has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. For laboratory research use only.