MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that has drawn significant interest in metabolic and aging research. This guide summarizes what the published scientific literature has examined about MOTS-c, its molecular profile, and how it is handled in a research setting. It is written for researchers and is not medical guidance.
What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c (CAS 1627580-64-6; molecular formula C101H152N28O22S2; molar mass ≈ 2174.6 g/mol) is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA region. Unlike most peptides studied in this catalog, MOTS-c originates from the mitochondrial genome itself, which is part of why it became a notable subject of cellular and metabolic research.
Research-use note: MOTS-c is a research chemical supplied strictly for laboratory research. It is not an approved drug or supplement and is not for human or animal consumption. Findings below come from cell-culture and animal-model studies.
How MOTS-c works (the mechanism studied)
In published research, MOTS-c has been studied as a regulator of metabolic homeostasis. The literature describes its primary target as skeletal muscle, where it has been reported to influence the folate cycle and the AMPK signaling pathway in study models. Researchers have also examined its relationship to cellular stress responses and exercise-associated signaling.
What researchers have studied
The MOTS-c literature is preclinical — cell-culture and rodent models. The most-cited studies include:
- Metabolic research — Lee et al. (Cell Metabolism, 2015) described MOTS-c as a mitochondrial-derived peptide that promotes metabolic homeostasis in animal models.
- Muscle and fat metabolism — subsequent work (2016) examined MOTS-c regulation of muscle and fat metabolism.
- Metabolic-disorder models — later studies (2023) further characterized MOTS-c in metabolic-disorder models.
These findings describe research outcomes in laboratory models, not validated outcomes in humans.
Handling and reconstitution in the laboratory
MOTS-c is typically supplied as a lyophilized powder for research use. Standard laboratory practice is to reconstitute it with bacteriostatic water, swirl (not shake) until dissolved, and store the reconstituted solution refrigerated (2–8 °C). The lyophilized powder is generally stored frozen and protected from light. (General lab-handling notes, not usage instructions.)
For research use only
All products and information referenced here are intended strictly for laboratory and scientific research use only. They are not for human or animal consumption and are not drugs, foods, supplements, or medical devices. No statement here should be interpreted as medical advice.
Explore MOTS-c and related research peptides
- MOTS-c 10mg — verified CAS, formula, and specifications
- GHK-Cu 50mg — copper tripeptide studied in regenerative research
- Bacteriostatic Water 30ml — reconstitution diluent
References
- Lee C, et al. The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance. Cell Metab. 2015. PubMed
- MOTS-c: A novel mitochondrial-derived peptide regulating muscle and fat metabolism. 2016. PubMed
- MOTS-c Functionally Prevents Metabolic Disorders. 2023. PubMed