MOTS-c — Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide
Metabolic & Longevity Research Peptide
Available Formats
Vial
Lyophilised powder vial offering full flexibility in reconstitution volume and concentration.
Cartridge (Reusable Pen)
Pre-filled replacement cartridge compatible with standard reusable research pens. Pen sold separately.
Disposable Pen
Fully pre-loaded, self-contained research pen. Ready to use directly from packaging.
Compound Overview
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-c) is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome. It was first identified and characterised by Lee et al. (2015) at the University of Southern California. MOTS-c belongs to the class of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) — small bioactive peptides encoded by short open reading frames within mitochondrial DNA.
The sequence (MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR) is highly conserved across species, suggesting functional importance. MOTS-c has been the subject of growing research interest in the fields of mitochondrial biology, cellular metabolism, and ageing.
Mechanism of Action
Research has identified several molecular pathways associated with MOTS-c activity in preclinical models:
AMPK Pathway Activation: In vitro and in vivo studies suggest MOTS-c activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a central regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. AMPK activation influences downstream metabolic processes including glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation.
Folate-Methionine Cycle Modulation: Research indicates MOTS-c may inhibit the folate cycle, leading to accumulation of the intermediate AICAR, an endogenous AMPK activator. This represents a proposed upstream mechanism for its metabolic effects.
Nuclear Translocation: Under conditions of metabolic stress, MOTS-c has been observed to translocate to the cell nucleus, where it may interact with stress-responsive transcription factors and regulate gene expression in an adaptive manner.
Published Research
Key publications in the MOTS-c literature include:
- Lee C et al. (2015) — Cell Metabolism, 21(3): 443-454. Original identification and characterisation of MOTS-c as a mitochondrial-derived peptide with metabolic regulatory activity.
- Reynolds JC et al. (2021) — Nature Communications, 12: 470. Demonstrated MOTS-c nuclear translocation under metabolic stress and interaction with stress-adaptive gene regulation.
Note: Citations are provided for reference purposes only. BioCompounds UK does not make therapeutic claims based on published research data.
Structural & Chemical Data
| Compound Class | Mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) |
| Sequence | MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR (16 AA) |
| Origin | Mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene |
| Purity | >99% verified by HPLC |
| Form | Lyophilised powder (vial) / Pre-filled solution (cartridge & pen) |
| Solubility | Sterile water / PBS |
| Storage (Dry) | -20 C |
| Storage (Reconstituted) | 2-8 C, use within 4 weeks |
Regulatory & Usage Notice
This product is supplied strictly as a research-grade reference compound for in-vitro laboratory investigation only. It is not approved, intended, or marketed for human or veterinary administration, diagnostic purposes, or therapeutic application. Purchasers must be qualified researchers aged 18+ and agree to handle all compounds in accordance with applicable regulations and good laboratory practice (GLP). BioCompounds UK makes no therapeutic claims regarding this or any compound in its catalogue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a mitochondrially-encoded peptide first characterised in 2015. It is studied in metabolic and cellular energy research, particularly for its role in AMPK signalling and mitochondrial homeostasis.
What is the purity of this peptide?
BioCompounds UK supplies HPLC-verified research-grade material. Selected batches undergo independent third-party analysis by Janoshik Analytical, with current published Certificates of Analysis available on our batch verification page when applicable.
What is the half-life of MOTS-c?
MOTS-c has an approximate half-life of several hours in published research models. It is typically administered daily in research protocols.
What makes MOTS-c distinctive in metabolic research?
Unlike most peptides, MOTS-c is encoded within the mitochondrial genome rather than the nuclear genome. This places it in a distinct research category alongside other mitochondrially-derived peptides. See our MOTS-c research guide for context.
How should this peptide be stored?
Storage depends on the format you have chosen:
- 40mg Vial (lyophilised powder): Store at -20°C in a sealed container, away from light and moisture. Once reconstituted, keep refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C and use within approximately four weeks.
- 3ml Cartridge (for reusable pen): Store refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C from arrival. Once opened, use within 3 months. Keep away from light.
- Disposable Ready-to-Use Pen: Store refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C from arrival. Once opened, use within 3 months. Keep away from light.
Full details are in our Peptide Storage Guide.
What formats is this available in?
This product is available in three research formats: a 40mg lyophilised vial, a 3ml cartridge for reusable research pens, and a ready-to-use disposable pen. Vials offer the most flexibility in reconstitution; cartridges and pens are calibrated for our standard equipment.
How fast is UK delivery?
Orders are typically dispatched within 24 hours via Royal Mail Tracked 24. During busier periods dispatch may extend to 48 hours. Free shipping on UK orders over £100, and signed-for delivery is free on orders of £350 or more. Full details in our delivery FAQs.
Is this product legal in the UK?
All BioCompounds UK products are sold strictly for in-vitro laboratory research by qualified researchers aged 18 or over. They are not approved or intended for human or veterinary consumption, diagnostic, or therapeutic use. See our Terms of Purchase for full guidance.
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