What Is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome. Unlike most peptides, which are encoded in nuclear DNA, MOTS-c is one of a small family of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) — making it unique in both origin and mechanism.
MOTS-c is sometimes called the "exercise mimetic peptide" because preclinical research suggests it activates many of the same metabolic pathways triggered by physical exercise — particularly AMPK signaling.
Quick Facts
| Property | Detail |
|---|---|
| Amino Acids | 16 |
| Molecular Weight | ~2,174 Da |
| Origin | Encoded in mitochondrial DNA (12S rRNA gene) |
| Sequence | MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR |
| Regulatory Status | Not FDA-approved; research use only |
| Primary Research Focus | Metabolic regulation and cellular energy |
Research Areas of Interest
MOTS-c has generated significant attention in preclinical studies examining its effects on:
- Metabolic regulation — the most-studied application; shown to activate AMPK and improve glucose metabolism in animal models
- Insulin sensitivity — research suggests improved glucose uptake independent of insulin signaling
- Exercise physiology — may enhance physical performance and endurance markers in animal studies
- Aging and longevity — circulating MOTS-c levels decline with age; supplementation studies in aged mice show functional improvements
- Fat metabolism — may promote fatty acid oxidation and reduce fat accumulation
- Cellular stress response — helps regulate the mitochondrial stress response and cellular homeostasis
Key Study Highlights
| Study Context | Finding |
|---|---|
| Aged mice (2018, Lee et al.) | Improved physical capacity and metabolic markers |
| High-fat diet mice | Prevented obesity and insulin resistance |
| Human exercise study | MOTS-c levels increased after acute exercise in skeletal muscle |
| Aging populations | Circulating MOTS-c levels decline significantly with age |
How It's Sold
| Source | Form | Prescription? | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Vendors | Lyophilized powder (5mg vial) | No | $40-90/vial |
| Research Vendors | Lyophilized powder (10mg vial) | No | $70-150/vial |
| Compounding Pharmacy | Injectable (subcutaneous) | Yes | $150-350+/month |
MOTS-c is less widely stocked than peptides like BPC-157 or TB-500. Not all vendors carry it — availability can be inconsistent, especially for higher-purity batches.
What to Look For on the COA
A legitimate Certificate of Analysis for MOTS-c should include:
- HPLC purity — minimum 95% for research grade, 98%+ for premium
- Mass spectrometry — confirmed molecular weight of ~2,174 Da
- Endotoxin testing — critical for injectable forms
- Amino acid sequence verification — confirms the correct 16-amino-acid MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR sequence
- Batch/lot number — must match the label on your product
MOTS-c contains methionine and tryptophan residues, which are susceptible to oxidation. A quality COA should show no significant oxidized byproducts on the HPLC chromatogram.
Storage Guide
- Lyophilized (powder): White powder. Store at -20°C for long-term stability; 2-8°C acceptable for shorter periods
- Reconstituted: Refrigerate immediately at 2-8°C. Use within 28 days
- All forms: MOTS-c is sensitive to oxidation — protect from light, minimize air exposure, and avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles
Key Sourcing Tips
- Always request and verify the COA before purchasing — batch numbers must match the product label
- MOTS-c is a newer research peptide with fewer established vendors — stick to sources with third-party testing from named labs
- Be cautious of vendors making metabolic or weight loss claims — this is a research compound, not a supplement
- Compare purity and pricing across at least 2-3 vendors before purchasing
- For personal use: work with a licensed provider and compounding pharmacy that can provide pharmaceutical-grade product
- Avoid any source that provides human dosing protocols — legitimate research vendors do not offer clinical guidance