MOTS-c
A mitochondrial-derived peptide studied for its role in metabolic regulation and exercise-adaptation signaling.
Overview
MOTS-c is one of several “mitochondrial-derived peptides” discovered by researchers at the University of Southern California in the 2010s — small peptides encoded within mitochondrial DNA rather than the nuclear genome. Its discovery contributed to a broader research shift recognizing mitochondria as active signaling organelles, not just cellular power plants.
Mechanism of Action
Research suggests MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus under metabolic stress and regulates gene expression related to glucose metabolism, in part through activation of AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), a central cellular energy-sensing pathway. It has been studied in animal models for its relationship to insulin sensitivity and exercise-induced metabolic adaptation.
Cited Research
Discovery & characterization
Identified MOTS-c as a mitochondrial-DNA-encoded peptide with metabolic signaling activity.
AMPK pathway activation
Studied for its role in activating AMPK signaling under metabolic stress conditions.
Insulin sensitivity research
Examined for effects on glucose homeostasis and insulin resistance in rodent models.
Exercise-adaptation research
MOTS-c levels have been observed to change in response to exercise, driving research into its role as an exercise-mimetic signal.
This is a summary, not an exhaustive review. Search the primary literature yourself: MOTS-c on PubMed →
Safety & Handling
MOTS-c should be handled only by qualified personnel in a laboratory setting, stored and reconstituted per its Certificate of Analysis, and kept refrigerated once reconstituted. It is not evaluated or approved by the FDA for any human or veterinary use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes MOTS-c different from other peptides?
It’s encoded by mitochondrial DNA rather than the nuclear genome that produces most other peptides in this library — a relatively recent discovery category called mitochondrial-derived peptides.
Is MOTS-c legal to purchase?
It’s legal to sell and purchase as a research chemical for laboratory use in the U.S. It is not approved by the FDA as a drug or supplement for human consumption.
How should it be stored?
Keep the lyophilized powder refrigerated or frozen prior to reconstitution. Once reconstituted, keep refrigerated and use within the timeframe on its Certificate of Analysis.
Is this page medical advice?
No. This page summarizes published literature for research and educational context only. It does not recommend a dose, protocol, or use in humans or animals outside a laboratory setting.
Have a specific question about MOTS-c?
Ask Signal IQ Rx — our research assistant trained on the Signal Library.