MOTS-C

Description

MOTS-C (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA, placing it among a small class of mitochondrially encoded peptides. MOTS-C was discovered by Lee et al. in 2015 in the laboratory of Pinchas Cohen at USC. It has since become one of the most extensively studied compounds in mitochondrial research.

The central research mechanism lies in AMPK signaling. In research models, MOTS-C activates the AMPK axis via the folate-methionine-one-carbon pathway system. AMPK is the central energy sensor of the cell and, in its activated form, regulates glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial biogenesis. This makes MOTS-C a research tool for studies on insulin sensitivity, metabolic flexibility and age-related metabolic changes.

In preclinical studies, MOTS-C levels in multiple tissues have been associated with aging, physical activity and metabolic status. The research hypothesis: MOTS-C functions as an endocrine signaling molecule between mitochondria and nucleus, communicating cellular energy status. This makes MOTS-C one of the first well-characterized mitokines.

In research setups, MOTS-C is typically used in cell cultures or animal models at defined concentrations over several weeks to observe chronic metabolic effects.

MOTS-C is available in 10mg vials as 10-vial packs.

This information is for research and educational purposes only. No medical recommendations.

Risks & Safety

MOTS-C is considered well tolerated per study reports. As an endogenous, mitochondrially encoded peptide, the available preclinical studies do not describe a pronounced toxicity profile.

Observed in studies and user reports:

• Injection site: mild redness, pressure or transient irritation at the injection site is the most common observation with subcutaneous use.
• Circulation: isolated reports of brief warmth, mild dizziness or fatigue shortly after application.
• AMPK effect on metabolism: through the AMPK axis MOTS-C modulates glucose uptake and energy metabolism, and possible effects on blood sugar are discussed in the literature.
• No long-term data: robust human studies barely exist, and most of the available evidence comes from cell cultures and animal models.

This classification does not replace medical advice. Risk and responsibility for any actual use lie entirely with the buyer.

Studies

• The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis - Cell Metabolism 2015: Original characterization of the compound.
• Mitochondrial-encoded peptide MOTS-c, diabetes, and aging-related diseases - Aging Cell 2019: Overview of age-related research applications.
• MOTS-c functionally prevents metabolic disorders - Metabolism 2022: Data from metabolic research in animal models.