Description
MOTS-c
Synthetic mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) for in vitro research on AMPK pathway activation, cellular energy metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic homeostasis
Overview & Mechanism of Action (In Vitro)
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a synthetic 16-amino acid peptide with the sequence (Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg), encoded within the mitochondrial 12S ribosomal RNA region. In molecular biology, endocrinology, and biogerontology, it serves as a primary model for investigating retrograde mitochondrial-to-nuclear signaling:
- Activation of the AMPK Signaling Axis: Stimulates 5′ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in skeletal muscle and hepatic cell lines, mimicking states of metabolic stress and energy demand.
- Modulation of Folate Metabolism & Purine Biosynthesis: Investigating the inhibition of the folate cycle, which leads to intermediate AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) accumulation and subsequent direct activation of AMPK.
- Insulin Sensitivity & Glucose Transport: Upregulates glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation to the cell membrane in cultured myotubes, enhancing cellular glucose uptake independently of classical insulin receptor activation.
- Mitochondrial Biogenesis & Oxidative Capacity: Induces transcription of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1$alpha$) and nuclear respiratory factors (NRF-1, NRF-2), promoting mitochondrial network remodeling and fatty acid oxidation capacity.
Technical & Chemical Specifications
- Classification: Research Peptide / Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide (MDP)
- Amino Acid Sequence: Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg
- Form: Sterile lyophilized white powder (cake)
- Component Identification: Verified via Mass Spectrometry (MS) and analytical HPLC
- Recommended Reconstitution Solvent: Sterile bacteriostatic water or sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)
- Storage Conditions: Store long-term at -20 °C in a dry, dark environment. Following reconstitution, keep refrigerated at 2–8 °C and utilize within standard experimental protocol timelines.
Scientific References & Literature
- Lee, C., et al. The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance. Cell Metabolism, 2015.
- Kim, K. H., et al. The mitochondrial-encoded peptide MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus to regulate metabolic stress responses. Cell Metabolism, 2018.
- Reynolds, J. C., et al. MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of metabolism and physical capacity. Nature Communications, 2021.
- Lu, H., et al. Mitochondria-derived peptide MOTS-c and its role in cellular energetics, aging, and metabolic disease models. Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 2019.
Legal Disclaimer & Terms of Purchase
This product is classified and supplied strictly for laboratory, scientific, and in vitro research purposes only (Research Use Only – RUO). This compound is not a drug, medicine, dietary supplement, cosmetic product, or substance intended for human or veterinary consumption, direct administration, injection, or diagnostic procedures.
By placing an order, the purchaser explicitly confirms that they are at least 18 years of age, possess the requisite professional qualifications and laboratory equipment to safely handle research materials, and are fully conversant with all relevant safety protocols for managing research substances. The seller assumes no liability for any use contrary to these terms.




