MOTS-c
$60.00
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded by a short open reading frame within the mitochondrial 12S ribosomal RNA gene. It was discovered in 2015 and is highly conserved across species, detectable in various tissues and in circulation. Unlike nuclear-encoded peptides, MOTS-c is translated in the cytoplasm after its polyadenylated transcript is exported from the mitochondria, allowing it to act as a retrograde signaling molecule from the mitochondria to the nucleus.
MOTS-c functions primarily as a metabolic regulator that mimics the effects of exercise and caloric restriction. Its best-characterized mechanism involves targeting the folate-methionine cycle and the tethered de novo purine biosynthesis pathway, leading to accumulation of the endogenous AMP analog AICAR, which subsequently activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Through AMPK activation, MOTS-c modulates glucose utilization and fatty acid metabolism, with skeletal muscle appearing as a key target tissue. It induces cellular and systemic glucose uptake, improves insulin sensitivity, and has been shown to prevent diet-induced obesity in preclinical models. The peptide also exerts anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects by inhibiting the MAP kinase-c-fos signaling pathway.
Buy MOTS-c — the Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide Redefining Metabolic Research
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA type-c) is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome, representing a paradigm shift in how researchers understand mitochondrial-to-nuclear communication. Unlike classical peptides, MOTS-c is translated in the cytosol and functions as a retrograde signaling molecule, translocating to the nucleus to regulate gene expression and metabolic homeostasis.
Its primary mechanism centers on AMPK activation—MOTS-c inhibits the folate cycle, causing a transient rise in cellular AICAR that triggers AMPK phosphorylation. This activation cascades into enhanced insulin sensitivity, stimulated fatty acid β-oxidation, and improved glucose utilization, promoting metabolic flexibility under energy stress. Critically, MOTS-c enhances intrinsic muscle mitochondrial bioenergetic performance through a PGC-1α/AMPK-dependent pathway, while simultaneously lowering mitochondrial reactive oxygen species emission and oxidative protein damage—effects achieved without altering mitochondrial respiratory protein content, suggesting intrinsic bioenergetic efficiency improvements rather than volume changes.
Because endogenous MOTS-c levels decline with age and are exercise-induced, researchers have designated it an “exercise mimetic”—capable of mimicking key biochemical signatures of physical activity including enhanced glucose uptake, improved mitochondrial function, and increased AMPK activity. Preclinical studies demonstrate enhanced physical endurance, prevention of age-related sarcopenia, and neuroprotective effects through hippocampal AMPK phosphorylation and neuroinflammation inhibition.
Key Research Applications:
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AMPK signaling and metabolic flexibility investigations
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Mitochondrial bioenergetics and ROS emission studies
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Insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis models
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Exercise mimetic and muscle homeostasis research
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Neuroprotection and cognitive function studies
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Aging and healthspan investigations
When you Buy MOTS-c from our catalog, you receive a high-purity, lyophilized research peptide (10mg options) supplied as a sterile powder for reconstitution. Each batch is independently tested to exceed 99% purity by HPLC, verified for endotoxins, heavy metals, and microbials, ensuring reliable and reproducible experimental results. Molecular formula: C₁₀₁H₁₅₂N₂₈O₂₂S₂; MW: 2174.6 g/mol; CAS: 1627580-64-6.
Important: This product is intended strictly for laboratory research use only. It is not for human or veterinary use, and not for diagnostic or therapeutic applications. As of 2026, no completed human clinical trial evaluates unmodified MOTS-c administration. Qualified researchers should handle all peptides in accordance with institutional safety guidelines.
Ready to advance your metabolic research? Buy MOTS-c today and join laboratories worldwide relying on verified purity, batch-level transparency, and U.S.-made quality.
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10mg |
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