MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA-c) is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the 12S ribosomal RNA gene of the mitochondrial genome. First characterized in 2...
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Certificate of Analysis included with every order.
Technical Specifications
Purity
≥99%
Form
Lyophilized powder
Storage
-20°C
Molecular Weight
2174.69 Da
Sequence
MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR
CAS Number
1627580-64-6
About This Peptide
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA-c) is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the 12S ribosomal RNA gene of the mitochondrial genome. First characterized in 2015 by Lee et al., MOTS-c consists of a 16-amino acid sequence (MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR) with a molecular weight of 2174.69 Da and is catalogued under CAS number 1627580-64-6. This peptide represents a distinct class of signaling molecules that originate from non-coding regions of mitochondrial DNA, challenging the long-held assumption that mitochondrial protein-coding capacity is limited to the canonical 13 proteins of the oxidative phosphorylation machinery. Pepitiva Biolabs supplies this compound (internal code: MOTS-c) as a lyophilized powder with a purity of ≥99%, intended exclusively for research applications.
MOTS-c has attracted considerable scientific interest due to its role as an intercellular and intracellular signaling peptide that translocates from mitochondria to the nucleus in response to metabolic stress. This translocation is a defining characteristic that distinguishes MOTS-c from many other mitochondria-derived factors and positions it as a key subject in studies exploring the mitochondria-nucleus communication axis. Research has documented altered circulating levels of MOTS-c in association with aging, exercise physiology, and various metabolic perturbations, making it a frequently studied biomarker candidate in longevity-focused research programs.
Structurally, MOTS-c is classified as a microprotein or micropeptide, a growing category of small open reading frame (sORF)-encoded peptides that exhibit potent biological activity despite their compact size. Its sequence is notably conserved across species, which has supported its use in diverse preclinical model systems including murine, primate, and cell-based experimental platforms. The peptide's involvement in AMPK pathway regulation and folate-methionine cycle modulation makes MOTS-c a valued tool compound in laboratories investigating metabolic homeostasis, mitochondrial signaling, and the molecular biology of aging. For research use only. Not for human consumption.
Research Applications
≥99% purity. Lyophilized powder. Storage: -20°C. For research purposes only.
Mechanism of Action
At the biochemical level, MOTS-c exerts its effects primarily through activation of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, a master regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. Under conditions of metabolic stress—such as glucose restriction or elevated AMP:ATP ratios—MOTS-c is processed and translocates to the nucleus, where it modulates gene expression programs associated with stress response and metabolic adaptation. Mechanistic studies have demonstrated that MOTS-c inhibits the folate cycle and de novo purine synthesis within the methionine-folate metabolic network, leading to an accumulation of AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide), an endogenous AMPK activator. This cascade provides a mechanistic link between mitochondrial metabolic sensing and whole-cell energy regulation.
In the nucleus, MOTS-c has been shown to interact with nuclear transcription factor complexes, influencing the expression of genes involved in antioxidant defense, glucose uptake, and lipid metabolism. Research in cell-based systems indicates that MOTS-c modulates the ARE (antioxidant response element) pathway and may interact with Nrf2 signaling components, though the precise protein-protein interaction network continues to be an active area of investigation. Its dual cytoplasmic and nuclear activity profile positions MOTS-c as a research probe for dissecting retrograde mitochondria-to-nucleus signaling, a field of growing importance in mitochondrial biology and aging research.
Research Applications
MOTS-c is utilized across a range of in vitro and preclinical research contexts focused on mitochondrial biology, metabolic signaling, and longevity. Representative research application areas include:
Metabolic stress modeling: Used in cell culture systems to investigate AMPK-dependent adaptive responses under glucose deprivation or nutrient restriction conditions.
Mitochondria-to-nucleus signaling studies: Employed as a tool to probe retrograde signaling pathways and characterize how mitochondrial peptides influence nuclear gene expression.
Aging and senescence research: Applied in replicative and stress-induced senescence models to examine correlations between mitochondrial peptide signaling and cellular aging phenotypes.
Exercise physiology models: Used in skeletal muscle cell lines and ex vivo tissue preparations to study peptide-mediated metabolic adaptation relevant to physical activity research.
Insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake assays: Incorporated into in vitro assays examining glucose transporter expression and GLUT4 translocation in adipocyte and myocyte model systems.
Antioxidant pathway characterization: Applied in oxidative stress assay platforms to investigate Nrf2/ARE pathway modulation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) management in mitochondrial disease models.
Storage & Handling Guidelines
Proper storage and handling are essential to maintain peptide integrity and ensure reliable research results. All Pepitiva Biolabs peptides are supplied as lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder, which provides excellent long-term stability when stored correctly. Store lyophilized peptides at -20°C for long-term storage or 2-8°C for short-term use. Once reconstituted, peptide solutions should be stored at 2-8°C and used within the timeframe specified in the product documentation. Always use sterile bacteriostatic water for reconstitution and handle peptides in a clean laboratory environment to prevent contamination. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as thermal stress can cause peptide degradation and loss of biological activity.
Quality Control & Certification
This product is manufactured under strict quality control protocols and has been verified through comprehensive analytical testing. Each batch undergoes reverse-phase HPLC analysis for purity determination and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) for molecular identity confirmation. A detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) is available for download, documenting purity percentage, molecular weight verification, appearance, and recommended storage conditions. Pepitiva Biolabs maintains batch-level traceability from synthesis through delivery, ensuring complete transparency and quality assurance for your research.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this product approved for human use?
No. This product is intended exclusively for in vitro scientific research and laboratory use. It is not approved for human or veterinary use, not intended for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, and should not be administered to humans or animals under any circumstances.
How do I reconstitute this peptide?
Add sterile bacteriostatic water slowly to the vial, directing the stream against the glass wall rather than directly onto the lyophilized powder. Gently swirl the vial until the powder is fully dissolved — do not shake vigorously. The recommended reconstitution volume depends on your desired concentration. Refer to the product documentation for specific guidance.
Can I get a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
Yes. A Certificate of Analysis is included with every order and is also available for download from the product page. The COA documents HPLC purity, mass spectrometry identity confirmation, batch number, production date, and storage recommendations.
For research use only. Not for human consumption.
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