What Is MOTS-c?
Research Use Only: MOTS-c is intended strictly for in-vitro laboratory research purposes only. Not for human consumption, medical treatment, or veterinary use. Read our full disclaimer.
What Is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the mitochondrial genome. In laboratory research, MOTS-c is studied for its role in retrograde mitochondrial-nuclear signalling, AMPK activation, metabolic regulation and cellular stress responses in vitro.
Mechanism of Action
MOTS-c is encoded in the 12S rRNA gene of the mitochondrial genome and is released from mitochondria in response to metabolic stress. It translocates to the nucleus, where it regulates gene expression involved in metabolic adaptation. Its primary mechanism involves modulation of the folate cycle, leading to AICAR accumulation and downstream AMPK activation.
AMPK Activation
MOTS-c activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) via AICAR accumulation, driving downstream effects on glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial biogenesis in laboratory models. AMPK activation by MOTS-c is studied as a model of exercise-mimetic metabolic signalling in vitro.
Mitochondrial-Nuclear Signalling
As a mitochondrial-derived peptide, MOTS-c represents a retrograde signalling molecule that communicates mitochondrial metabolic status to the nucleus. Laboratory research uses MOTS-c to study how mitochondrial stress signals are transduced to nuclear gene expression programmes in cellular models.
Research Applications
Metabolic Regulation Research
MOTS-c is used in laboratory models to study AMPK-mediated metabolic regulation, including glucose uptake, insulin sensitivity and lipid oxidation in skeletal muscle and other metabolically active cell types.
Exercise Mimetic Research
MOTS-c activates overlapping signalling pathways with exercise-induced metabolic adaptation. Laboratory researchers use MOTS-c to study exercise-mimetic signalling in vitro, examining AMPK activation, GLUT4 expression and mitochondrial biogenesis in cellular models.
Mitochondrial Biology
As a mitochondrially encoded peptide, MOTS-c is a unique tool for studying mitochondrial-nuclear communication and the role of mitochondrial-derived signals in cellular metabolic adaptation. It is relevant to research into mitochondrial biology, biogenesis and stress signalling.
Ageing & Longevity Research
MOTS-c levels decline with age in research models, and its administration is associated with metabolic improvements in aged experimental systems. Laboratory researchers use MOTS-c to investigate the relationship between mitochondrial signalling, AMPK activity and age-related metabolic decline.
Structural Characteristics
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide (MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR) with a molecular weight of approximately 2174 Da. It is encoded within the 12S rRNA gene of the mitochondrial genome, making it one of a small number of peptides known to be encoded by mitochondrial DNA rather than nuclear DNA.
Storage & Handling
Store lyophilised MOTS-c at -20°C or -80°C, protected from light and moisture. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water prior to use. Use the Concentration Calculator to determine the correct volume for your target concentration. Follow institutional laboratory protocols for handling and disposal.
Quality & Documentation
Solatide Biosciences MOTS-c is independently third-party tested to >=99% purity, verified by HPLC and mass spectrometry. A Certificate of Analysis is available on the product page.
Related Compounds
Research Use Only: All compounds are manufactured for in-vitro laboratory research and are not intended for human consumption, medical use, or veterinary applications. Full disclaimer.