MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded by a short open reading frame (sORF) within the mitochondrial 12S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene . It belongs to a newly discovered class of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs), which includes humanin and six small humanin-like peptides (SHLP1-6) .
Unlike proteins encoded by nuclear DNA, MOTS-c is translated in the cytoplasm after its polyadenylated transcript is exported from the mitochondria, using the standard genetic code . This peptide is highly conserved across species, detectable in various tissues and in circulation, and its expression declines with age .
In preclinical research models, MOTS-c has been investigated for its role in metabolic regulation through activation of the AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) pathway, making it a compound of significant interest in metabolic, aging, and mitochondrial research .
Mechanism of Action
MOTS-c functions through a distinct intracellular signaling mechanism :
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AMPK Pathway Activation: The primary cellular action of MOTS-c involves targeting the folate-methionine cycle and its tethered de novo purine biosynthesis pathway. This interaction leads to the accumulation of the metabolic intermediate AICAR, which subsequently activates AMPK .
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Metabolic Regulation: Through AMPK activation, MOTS-c modulates cellular metabolism, including glucose utilization and fatty acid metabolism .
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Stress Response & Inflammation: Research demonstrates MOTS-c exerts anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting MAP kinase pathways (ERK, JNK, P38) and the c-fos signaling pathway .
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Nuclear Gene Regulation: MOTS-c can translocate to the nucleus to regulate nuclear gene expression in response to metabolic stress .
Key Research Applications:
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Metabolic homeostasis and insulin sensitivity studies
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Mitochondrial function and aging research
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AMPK signaling pathway investigations
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Muscle health and atrophy research
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Inflammation and stress response models
Product Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | MOTS-C (Mitochondrial ORF of 12S rRNA-c) |
| CAS Number | 1627580-64-6 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₀₁H₁₅₂N₂₈O₂₂S₂ |
| Molecular Weight | ~2174.6 g/mol |
| Sequence | H-Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg-OH |
| Length | 16 Amino Acids |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC Verified) |
| Appearance | White to off-white lyophilized powder |
| Endotoxin Level | <0.25 EU/mg |
| Storage | -20°C (long-term); 2-8°C (short-term), protected from light and moisture |
Quality Assurance
Every batch of MOTS-C undergoes rigorous analytical testing to ensure maximum purity and research integrity:
| Test | Method | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | ESI-MS | Matches theoretical mass |
| Purity | RP-HPLC | ≥99% area |
| Sequence Confirmation | MS/MS | 100% sequence coverage |
| Endotoxin | LAL Test | <0.25 EU/mg |
Certificate of Analysis (COA) available upon request.
Storage & Reconstitution Guidelines
Storage Conditions:
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Lyophilized (Long-term): -20°C, protected from light and moisture
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Lyophilized (Short-term): 2°C – 8°C (refrigerated)
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Reconstituted: 4°C for up to 7 days; aliquot and store at -20°C for longer storage; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Reconstitution Protocol:
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Allow vial to reach room temperature
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Add sterile bacteriostatic water or 0.9% sodium chloride solution
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Gently swirl (do not vortex) until fully dissolved
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Allow solution to stand at 4°C for complete reconstitution
Note: Peptides are sensitive to formulation, process, and environmental conditions that may lead to aggregation and degradation.
Research Background
Discovery & Significance
MOTS-c was identified as a signaling peptide encoded by a short open reading frame (sORF) within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene . It is distinct from other mitochondrial-derived peptides, and unlike nuclear-encoded proteins, its transcript is exported from mitochondria before translation . MOTS-c is highly conserved across species .
Preclinical Research
Preclinical research has investigated MOTS-c in several areas :
| Research Area | Model & Findings |
|---|---|
| Metabolic Health | Counteracts diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance by activating AMPK |
| Inflammation | Reduces paw licking time by ~60% in formalin-induced inflammation model; suppresses spinal p-ERK/p-JNK/p-P38 and c-fos expression |
| Muscle Health | Promotes muscle mass and endurance; may reduce myostatin and muscle atrophy signaling |
| Oxidative Stress | Activates myocardial AMPK/Nrf2 antioxidant pathway, reducing oxidative damage |
Important Notice
⚠️ FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY
This product is not intended for human consumption, diagnostic use, therapeutic application, or clinical administration. MOTS-C is a research chemical intended exclusively for in-vitro and laboratory research purposes.
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Not approved by the FDA for human use
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Not a dietary supplement, food additive, or pharmaceutical
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No sales to individuals; intended solely for qualified researchers and scientific institutions
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Use as intended only
By purchasing this product, you confirm that you are a licensed researcher or laboratory professional and agree to use this compound in compliance with all applicable local, national, and international regulations.
Why Choose PeptidesUnit.com?
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| ✅ Premium Purity | ≥99% HPLC-verified purity guaranteed |
| ✅ Research-Grade Quality | Manufactured under GMP-aligned conditions |
| ✅ Third-Party Tested | Independent COA for every batch |
| ✅ Secure Packaging | Lyophilized in amber glass vials with tamper-evident seals |
| ✅ Fast Global Shipping | Discreet packaging with real-time tracking |
| ✅ Competitive Pricing | Direct-from-manufacturer pricing |
Order Now
MOTS-C Peptide 5mg – ≥99% Purity
Available for immediate shipment
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| Dosage | 10mg, 40mg |
|---|
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