MOTS-C 40mg

Compound Name: Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type c

Synonyms: MOTS-c

CAS Number: 1627580-64-6

Molecular Formula: C₁₀₁H₁₅₂N₂₈O₂₂S₂

Molecular Weight: 2174.6 g/mol

Structure: Nonapeptide

Peptide Sequence: Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg

Chemical Structure:

Source: PubChem

Mechanism of Action: energy balance and metabolic stability. It activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) by increasing intracellular AICAR levels, which enhances glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation. Under metabolic or oxidative stress, MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus, where it regulates the expression of antioxidant and stress-response genes to protect cells from metabolic dysfunction. Through these effects, MOTS-c improves insulin sensitivity, supports mitochondrial communication, and promotes overall metabolic health^1-3.

Biological Activity: MOTS-c enhances metabolic function by improving glucose metabolism and promoting fat utilization. It increases insulin sensitivity and cellular energy efficiency through activation of the AMPK pathway. In preclinical research, MOTS-c administration improved glucose tolerance, reduced diet-induced obesity, and supported mitochondrial health. It also demonstrates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect against metabolic and age-related cellular stress^1-3.

Storage:

• Store lyophilized DSIP at −20°C, protected from light and moisture.
• Once reconstituted, keep refrigerated (2–8°C) and use within 30 days.

Drug Categories: Mitochondrial-derived peptide; metabolic regulator; mitochondrial signaling peptide

Additional Notes:

• Suitable for both in vitro and in vivo research applications

Summary Table:

Disclaimer: For Research Use Only. Not intended for human or veterinary use. This compound is supplied solely for laboratory and R&D purposes.

Detailed Product Description

MOTS-c is a 16–amino acid peptide encoded within mitochondrial 12S rRNA that acts as a key regulator of metabolism and cellular stress adaptation. It functions through activation of the AMPK pathway, enhancing glucose uptake and promoting lipid oxidation. MOTS-c also serves as a mitochondrial-to-nuclear signaling molecule that regulates genes involved in oxidative stress resistance, inflammation control, and energy balance. These effects contribute to improved metabolic flexibility, reduced fat accumulation, and protection against insulin resistance and oxidative damage. Research indicates that circulating levels of MOTS-c decline with age, suggesting a potential role in promoting healthy aging and longevity^1-4.

Research Highlights

• Improves Glucose Metabolism: Enhances glucose uptake and utilization through AMPK activation, improving energy efficiency¹.
• Reduces Fat Accumulation: Promotes fatty acid oxidation and protects against diet-induced obesity².
• Supports Mitochondrial Function: Regulates nuclear gene expression to improve cellular resilience and oxidative stress response³.
• Enhances Exercise and Recovery: Improves endurance and performance by increasing mitochondrial energy signaling³.
• Potential Anti-Aging Effects: Circulating MOTS-c levels decline with age; supplementation may support longevity⁴.

Mechanism of Action

MOTS-c regulates metabolic homeostasis and stress adaptation through multiple coordinated biological pathways:

• Mitochondrial Origin and Signaling: MOTS-c is encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene and functions as a mitochondrial-derived peptide that transmits signals to the nucleus to regulate cellular metabolism and stress responses¹.
• Activation of AMPK Pathway: MOTS-c modulates the folate and methionine cycles, increasing intracellular levels of 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR), a potent activator of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Activation of AMPK enhances glucose uptake, promotes fatty acid oxidation, and improves insulin sensitivity².
• Nuclear Translocation and Gene Regulation: Under oxidative or metabolic stress, MOTS-c translocates from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, where it interacts with transcription factors and stress-response elements to regulate genes involved in metabolism, antioxidant defense, and inflammation³.
• Antioxidant and Cytoprotective Actions: MOTS-c enhances the expression of antioxidant and stress-response genes, reducing oxidative stress and protecting mitochondrial integrity. It suppresses inflammatory mediators and reactive oxygen species (ROS) to support long-term cellular function⁴.

Pharmacokinetic Profile:

• Route of Administration: IV, SC
• Dosing Frequency: Once daily for 7-14 days
• Half-Life: <1hr

Formulation & Handling

• Reconstitute in sterile saline for in vivo/in vitro use
• Use reconstituted solution within 30 days
• Store at −20°C, protect from light and repeated freeze-thaw cycles

Clinical Trial Activity

References

¹Lee, C. et al. The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance. Cell Metab. 21, 443–454 (2015).

²Lee, C., Kim, K. H. & Cohen, P. MOTS-c: A novel mitochondrial-derived peptide regulating muscle and fat metabolism. Free Radic. Biol. Med. 100, 182–187 (2016).

³Wan, W. et al. Mitochondria-derived peptide MOTS-c: Effects and mechanisms related to stress, metabolism and aging. J. Transl. Med. 21, 36 (2023).

⁴Zheng, Y., Wei, Z. & Wang, T. MOTS-c: A promising mitochondrial-derived peptide for therapeutic exploitation. Front. Endocrinol. 14, 1120533 (2023).