MOTS-C
Research Use Only · Not for Human Consumption
A 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene
A 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA gene
Chemistry
| CAS# | Formula | Molar Mass |
|---|---|---|
| CAS Number: 1627580-64-6 | Molecular Formula: C101H152N28O22S2 | Molar Mass: 2174.6 g/mol |
What is MOTS-C?
MOTS-C (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-C) is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP). It has been examined in preclinical models of AMPK signaling and mitochondria-to-nucleus retrograde communication.
MOTS-C was first described in 2015 by Dr. Pinchas Cohen and his research team at the University of Southern California's Leonard Davis School of Gerontology. The characterization identified a short open reading frame within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene encoding a distinct peptide, adding to an emerging class of mitochondrial-derived peptides.
The peptide's name reflects its origin: MOTS-C stands for Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA type-C. It is a 16-amino-acid sequence encoded within a region of mitochondrial DNA previously considered non-coding. Its characterization contributed to an ongoing research field focused on mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) and mitochondria-to-nucleus signaling.
Published observational research has reported measurements of circulating MOTS-C concentrations. Preclinical studies in murine models have examined MOTS-C's interactions with AMPK signaling, insulin-signaling components, and lipid-metabolism pathways. This product is intended for research use only.
How should MOTS-C be stored?
Peptide Foundry research peptides are supplied lyophilized (freeze-dried). Keep sealed vials cool, dry, and protected from light until reconstitution.
After reconstitution, refrigerate prepared solutions and use sterile technique. For general laboratory diluent and handling notes, see lyophilized peptide reconstitution.
Certificate of Analysis
Every batch of MOTS-C is tested by ILS Laboratories, an ISO/IEC 17025–accredited lab, for purity, identity, heavy metals, sterility, endotoxin, and a fentanyl screen. The full certificate is below.
MOTS-C · 10mg
Peptide Purity · HPLC @ 214 nm
99.71% — exceptional research-grade purity
Area-normalized against all peptide-related peaks. Identity confirmed by chromatographic retention-time match to a reference standard.
Every test on this certificate
COA documents are updated with each new batch. Contact support for batch-specific documentation.
Further reading
References
- Lee C, et al. The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance. Cell Metabolism. 2015;21(3):443-454. PubMed: 25738459
- Kim KH, et al. MOTS-c: A mitochondrial-encoded regulator of the nucleus during metabolic stress. Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. 2018;29(10):2367-2369. PubMed: 29983246
- Reynolds JC, et al. MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline and muscle homeostasis. Nature Communications. 2021;12(1):470. PubMed: 33473109





