MOTS-c
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA type-c) is a mitochondria-derived peptide discovered by Dr. Changhan Lee at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology in 2015. As one of several recently identified mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs), MOTS-c is encoded in the mitochondrial genome rather than the nuclear genome, representing a novel class of signaling molecules.
Research Overview
The discovery of MOTS-c challenged the long-held assumption that mitochondrial DNA primarily encodes structural components of the electron transport chain. Published in Cell Metabolism, the initial characterization by Lee et al. demonstrated that MOTS-c acts as a metabolic regulator, translocating to the nucleus under metabolic stress to influence gene expression. Subsequent studies have examined its effects on AMPK pathway activation, glucose metabolism, fatty acid oxidation, and exercise-related metabolic pathways in animal models. Research has also explored age-related decline in MOTS-c levels and correlations with metabolic parameters. The discovery of MOTS-c and related MDPs has opened an entirely new field of mitochondrial peptide biology that continues to expand rapidly.
Key Research Findings
- 1
Discovered as a novel mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded in the 12S rRNA gene (Lee et al., Cell Metabolism, 2015)
- 2
Demonstrated nuclear translocation under metabolic stress conditions in cell studies
- 3
Activated AMPK signaling pathway in multiple cell culture and animal model studies
- 4
Showed age-related decline in circulating levels in both rodent and human observational studies
- 5
Modulated skeletal muscle metabolism-related gene expression in mouse models
- 6
Represents a new class of retrograde mitochondrial signaling molecules
Where to Buy MOTS-c
Our top-ranked vendors for sourcing research-grade MOTS-c. All vendors below publish third-party COAs and have been independently evaluated.
Molecular Details
- Sequence
- MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR
- Molecular Weight
- 2,174.6 g/mol
- Molecular Formula
- C101H152N28O22S2
Storage & Handling
- Storage
- Store lyophilized at -20C. Reconstituted at 4C, use within 14 days.
- Solubility
- Soluble in water. May require gentle warming for complete dissolution.
Research Disclaimer: All information on this page is provided for educational and research purposes only. Products discussed are intended for laboratory research use exclusively. They are not intended for human consumption, therapeutic use, or as dietary supplements. Always follow institutional guidelines and consult published peer-reviewed literature for research protocol development. Not for human consumption.