MOTS-c — Mitochondria-Derived Metabolic Peptide
A 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA, studied for its role in metabolic homeostasis, exercise-induced stress response, and insulin sensitivity.
Reconstituted for research use • Per research protocol
Compound Details
Mechanism of Action
MOTS-c activates AMPK through inhibition of the folate-methionine cycle at the level of AICAR transformylase, leading to accumulation of the endogenous AMPK activator 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR). Activated AMPK then phosphorylates downstream targets to increase glucose transporter (GLUT4) translocation, enhance fatty acid oxidation, and inhibit lipogenesis. During cellular stress, MOTS-c translocates from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, where it interacts with ARE-containing promoters to activate a protective gene expression program.
Overview
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome, making it one of a small number of known mitochondria-derived peptides (MDPs). Discovered in 2015 by Dr. Changhan David Lee at the University of Southern California, MOTS-c has rapidly become one of the most studied peptides in metabolic and exercise physiology research. MOTS-c functions as a retrograde signaling molecule — meaning it is produced by mitochondria but acts on the nuclear genome to regulate metabolic gene expression. Research has shown that MOTS-c activates AMPK (5' AMP-activated protein kinase), the master cellular energy sensor, and promotes glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation independently of insulin. In animal models, MOTS-c administration prevented age-related and diet-induced insulin resistance and obesity. Notably, MOTS-c levels increase during exercise and decline with age, suggesting it may be an endogenous exercise mimetic. Studies have also demonstrated that MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus during cellular stress, where it regulates adaptive gene expression through interaction with the antioxidant response element (ARE). PharmaOrder supplies COA-verified MOTS-c for metabolic and aging research.
Pricing
Volume pricing available — create an account to see tiered rates.
Purity & Testing
COA available. Third-party testing by Finnrick Analytical.
Certificates of Analysis (COA) are available in your account. Third-party testing is conducted to verify identity, purity, and potency.
Storage & Handling
Store lyophilized at -20°C. Reconstituted: 2-8°C, use within 14 days.
Shipping
Ships worldwide from 6 distribution centers via USPS Ground Advantage
Available for direct research purchase
Research-use-only products are sold strictly for laboratory and research purposes. By purchasing, you acknowledge that these products are not intended for human or veterinary use, and you agree to PharmaOrder's RUO terms of service.
Published Research
Selected peer-reviewed studies referenced in this product overview.
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FAQ
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