MOTS-c

Origin and Development

Identified by researchers examining short open reading frames within the mitochondrial genome. MOTS-c stands for mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA type-c. Its discovery is notable because it belongs to a class of peptides encoded by mitochondrial rather than nuclear DNA, which was not a well-recognized category until relatively recently.

Mechanism as Understood in the Literature

Preclinical work associates MOTS-c with AMPK activation and with regulation of metabolic pathways related to insulin sensitivity and glucose handling. It has also been described as translocating to the nucleus under metabolic stress and influencing the expression of stress-response genes. As with most compounds in this library, the mechanistic picture is drawn from animal and cell-culture work.

Research Status

Predominantly preclinical. Rodent studies have examined effects on insulin sensitivity, diet-induced obesity, and exercise performance. Human data is sparse, and there is no substantial randomized controlled trial evidence.

Regulatory status

Not FDA-approved for any indication. Removed from the FDA's Category 2 bulk drug substances list in April 2026 without being moved to Category 1, and without a recognized USP/NF monograph. Scheduled for Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee review on July 23, 2026.

Commonly Confused With

Sometimes grouped with humanin and SHLP peptides, which are also mitochondrial-derived but are distinct molecules with different sequences.

How This Compound Is Marketed

Vendor marketing for this compound typically references metabolic health, exercise capacity, and longevity. VialReport does not evaluate or endorse these claims. See Research Status above for what the published literature actually establishes.

Analytical Profile

16 amino acids, sequence MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR, molecular weight approximately 2174 Da. Confirmable by retention-time comparison against a reference standard, with mass spectrometry providing stronger confirmation.

Stability and Handling

Supplied lyophilized. Stability depends on molecular form, formulation, container closure, temperature, and reconstitution conditions, and published data may not apply to research-channel material.

Key Literature

01 Lee C, et al. The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance. Cell Metab. 2015;21(3):443-454.
02 Reynolds JC, et al. MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline and muscle homeostasis. Nat Commun. 2021;12:470.

Reports for MOTS-c

MOTS-c

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