What it is
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondria-encoded peptide (Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu), derived from an open reading frame within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene. It’s part of the growing field of “mitokines,” signaling peptides that link mitochondrial status to cellular responses.Research context
In preclinical literature, MOTS-c has been investigated as a regulator of cellular stress responses and metabolic signaling. In vitro, it’s frequently used to probe pathways involving AMPK activation, folate cycle coupling, and downstream effects on glucose and lipid handling under energetic stress. It’s also studied for cross-talk between mitochondria and nucleus (mito-nuclear communication), including transcriptional programs related to stress adaptation.Research relevance
MOTS-c is valuable for dissecting:
How mitochondrial peptides modulate AMPK and mTOR-related networks.
Adaptive transcriptional responses to metabolic stress, oxidative load, or nutrient scarcity.
The interface between mitochondrial signals and insulin/IGF pathway readouts in cell systems.
Common lab uses (examples)
Cell-based assays measuring AMPK phosphorylation, ACC phosphorylation, and metabolic gene expression.
Stress-challenge models (e.g., nutrient deprivation) to observe cytoprotective transcriptional signatures.
Mechanistic mapping with CRISPRi/CRISPRa or siRNA on AMPK subunits and upstream kinases.
Compliance
For laboratory research use only. Not for human or animal consumption.
Specs
Purity: ≥98% (HPLC)
Form: Lyophilized powder (vials)
Solubility: Sterile Water / Bacteriostatic Water / DMSO (depending on protocol)
Molecular Weight (approx.): ~190 Da
Appearance: White to off-white crystalline/lyophilized powder
Lab Notes
Storage (dry): −20 °C long-term, protected from light and humidity
After reconstitution: 2–8 °C (refrigerated); use within standard lab stability window
Handling: Maintain aseptic conditions; aliquot to minimize freeze–thaw cycles
Reconstitution: Dissolve in bacteriostatic water or sterile solution under sterile technique
Compliance
🔬 For laboratory research only. Not for human consumption, clinical use, or veterinary use.
