MOTS-c research overview
MOTS-c (mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded by a short open reading frame in the mitochondrial genome, first described in 2015. It belongs to the mitochondrial-derived peptides, a group that also includes humanin. Published work studies it in cultured cells and rodent models, including its effect on the folate cycle, AMPK signaling and nuclear gene expression.
MOTS-c is not approved by the FDA for any use. Pep Shop Texas supplies it as a lyophilized powder for laboratory research only.
Identity and structure
| Name | MOTS-c (mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c) |
|---|---|
| Sequence | Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg (MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR) |
| Length | 16 amino acids |
| Origin | Encoded in the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene (MT-RNR1) |
| Molecular formula | C101H152N28O22S2 |
| Molecular weight | about 2174.6 g/mol |
| CAS number | 1627580-64-6 |
| Form | White lyophilized powder in a sealed vial |
Published research
MOTS-c has been studied in cultured cell lines and in mouse models, mostly by one research group at the University of Southern California that first described it. The papers below are listed by what was measured. They are not evidence of safety or effect in people.
Discovery paper. Identified the open reading frame in mitochondrial 12S rRNA that encodes MOTS-c. In cultured cells, measured folate-cycle and de novo purine synthesis intermediates and AMPK activation; in mice, measured which tissues responded, chiefly skeletal muscle.
Lee C, Zeng J, Drew BG, Sallam T, Martin-Montalvo A, Wan J, Kim SJ, Mehta H, Hevener AL, de Cabo R, Cohen P. The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance. Cell Metab. 2015;21(3):443-454. PubMed 25738459
Cultured cell lines under glucose restriction and other stresses. Tracked where MOTS-c sits inside the cell (it moved to the nucleus, AMPK-dependent), measured nuclear gene expression, and its binding to transcription factors such as NRF2.
Kim KH, Son JM, Benayoun BA, Lee C. The mitochondrial-encoded peptide MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus to regulate nuclear gene expression in response to metabolic stress. Cell Metab. 2018;28(3):516-524.e7. PubMed 29983246
Storage of lyophilized material
Keep lyophilized MOTS-c sealed, dry and away from light, in a freezer for long-term storage of the powder. Let a cold vial reach room temperature before opening it so moisture does not condense on the powder.
Lab testing
Each batch Pep Shop Texas sells is sent to an independent lab for identity (LC-MS) and purity (HPLC) testing. How we test.
MOTS-C: strengths, price and stock · All lab reports · A–Z index · Full collection
For laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary use. Not a drug, food, cosmetic or supplement. Pep Shop Texas is not a compounding pharmacy and does not give dosing or preparation guidance. Nothing on this page is medical advice or a claim about use in people.