MOTS-C

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open-Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-c)

Primary Function: Metabolic regulation, mitochondrial optimization, cellular stress resistance
Research Use: Obesity, insulin sensitivity, endurance, longevity, mitochondrial function
Molecular Formula: C38H62N10O15
CAS Number: 1625585-96-4
Synonyms: Mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTSc, MOTS-c peptide

Description:
MOTS-c is a mitochondria-encoded peptide composed of 16 amino acids that plays a pivotal role in metabolic homeostasis. Unlike most peptides, which are encoded in the nuclear genome, MOTS-c is transcribed from the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene and has been shown to regulate glucose metabolism, fat utilization, and insulin sensitivity. It has demonstrated promising results in aging, obesity, and exercise endurance models, making it a strong candidate for mitochondrial-related disease research.

Mechanism of Action:

• Activates AMPK signaling, promoting cellular energy balance and fat oxidation
• Increases glucose uptake in skeletal muscle
• Suppresses the folate cycle, shifting metabolism to promote mitochondrial activity
• Enhances cellular stress response and exercise capacity

Key Research Areas:

• Insulin resistance and glucose regulation
• Obesity and fat metabolism
• Aging and longevity
• Physical endurance and mitochondrial optimization
• Inflammation and metabolic syndrome

History of Discovery:
MOTS-c was discovered in 2015 by researchers Dr. Pinchas Cohen and Dr. Changhan Lee at the University of Southern California (USC). It was the first identified mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) with a direct impact on systemic metabolism, establishing a new frontier in metabolic and aging research. Its discovery revealed a unique form of mitochondrial-nuclear communication, highlighting mitochondria as active regulators of gene expression and homeostasis.

Case Studies:

1. Insulin Sensitivity and Obesity (2015, Cell Metab): MOTS-c administration improved insulin sensitivity, reduced obesity, and increased glucose utilization in high-fat-fed mice. [Cell Metab. 2015;21(3):443–454.]
2. Longevity and Healthspan (2020, Aging Cell): Chronic treatment extended lifespan and improved health markers in aged rodents by enhancing mitochondrial function. [Aging Cell. 2020;19(1):e13038.]
3. Exercise Performance Enhancement (2018, Nat Commun): MOTS-c boosted skeletal muscle metabolism and enhanced endurance performance. [Nat Commun. 2018;9(1):468.]

Packaging Information:

• Form: Lyophilized powder
• Purity: ≥ 99%
• For research use only. Not for human or veterinary use.