Research Context
Our MOTS-c vial is a mitochondrial-derived peptide supplied at >99% HPLC purity for metabolic, mitochondrial, and cellular-aging research.
Within the broader landscape of research compounds — colloquially referred to in community forums as compounds or "research peptides" — MOTS-c is studied for its mechanistic profile in controlled laboratory protocols. Investigators frequently catalog it alongside complementary research compounds when designing comparative or pathway-level studies.
A mitochondrial-derived peptide studied in metabolic, mitochondrial, and cellular-aging research.
99% HPLC Purity · For Laboratory Research Use Only
Key Research Findings (At a Glance)
| Parameter | Summary |
|---|---|
| Peptide Structure | 16 amino acids (Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg) |
| Origin | Mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded in the 12S rRNA region of mtDNA |
| Primary Mechanism | AMPK activation via folate-cycle inhibition and AICAR accumulation |
| Key Research Areas | Mitochondrial function, insulin sensitivity, metabolic homeostasis, exercise mimetic studies |
| Distinguishing Feature | Acts as an "exercise mimetic" by activating exercise-induced metabolic pathways |
| Key Differentiator from Epithalon | Targets mitochondrial metabolism; Epithalon targets telomere biology |
| Common Dosage Range (Preclinical) | 50–200 mcg per administration (subcutaneous or intraperitoneal) |
| Typical Administration | Subcutaneous or intraperitoneal injection |
| Intended Use | Laboratory research only – not for human or veterinary consumption |
Overview
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA type-c) is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the 12S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA.
Researchers seeking to buy research-grade MOTS-c select it for its unique mechanism of metabolic regulation and its role as one of the first identified mitochondrial-derived signaling peptides.
The defining mechanism of MOTS-c involves inhibition of the folate cycle and de novo purine biosynthesis, which leads to intracellular accumulation of AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide). AICAR is a potent endogenous activator of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), the cell's master metabolic regulator.
Through AMPK activation, MOTS-c influences glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation, mitochondrial biogenesis, and insulin sensitivity. This profile has earned MOTS-c the designation of an "exercise mimetic" in research literature.
When investigators order MOTS-c for sale in research quantities, it is commonly studied in protocols examining metabolic decline, age-related insulin resistance, and mitochondrial dysfunction in preclinical models.
While MOTS-c targets mitochondrial metabolism and insulin sensitivity, Epithalon targets telomere biology and pineal-circadian regulation. Researchers frequently investigate the two compounds together to span multiple pillars of cellular aging in longevity research.
Mechanism of Action: AMPK Activation and Metabolic Regulation
Folate-Cycle Inhibition and AICAR Accumulation
MOTS-c inhibits methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase (MTHFD) within the folate cycle, blocking de novo purine biosynthesis and causing AICAR to accumulate. AICAR is the endogenous AMPK agonist that signals cellular energy stress, making MOTS-c a natural upstream activator of the AMPK pathway.
AMPK Activation and Metabolic Effects
Once AMPK is activated, MOTS-c drives increased glucose uptake, enhanced fatty acid oxidation, improved insulin sensitivity, and upregulated mitochondrial biogenesis. Research demonstrates these effects across hepatic, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue models.
Exercise Mimetic Profile
Because exercise itself drives AMPK activation and AICAR-related signaling, MOTS-c is referenced in the literature as an "exercise mimetic." Studies show MOTS-c can prevent diet-induced obesity and improve metabolic markers in sedentary animal models, replicating many of the metabolic adaptations associated with physical activity.
Why Researchers Choose MOTS-c Over Other Longevity Peptides
Versus Epithalon: While both are studied in longevity research, MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that regulates metabolic homeostasis and insulin sensitivity, whereas Epithalon is a pineal-derived peptide that activates telomerase and elongates telomeres.
Researchers choose MOTS-c when the focus is on mitochondrial metabolism, AMPK signaling, or exercise-mimetic models, while Epithalon is selected for telomere biology, circadian regulation, and pineal-aging research.
Primary Research Applications
- Mitochondrial biogenesis and bioenergetic studies
- AMPK pathway and metabolic signaling research
- Insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis modeling
- Exercise-mimetic and metabolic-fitness investigations
- Age-related metabolic decline and sarcopenia models
- Diet-induced obesity and adipose tissue research
- Comparative longevity studies (vs. Epithalon)
Product Specifications
Chemical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Peptide Sequence | Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg |
| CAS Number | 1627580-64-6 |
| Synonyms | MOTS-c, Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide, MDP |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₀₁H₁₅₂N₂₈O₂₂S₂ |
| Molar Mass | ~2174.6 g/mol |
| Peptide Length | 16 amino acids |
| Purity | ≥99% by HPLC |
| Form | Lyophilized white powder |
Note: Formulation ratios and purity metrics may vary by batch. Always refer to the batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) included with your order for exact composition and laboratory-verified specifications.
Storage and Stability
| Condition | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Long-term storage (lyophilized) | −20°C in tightly sealed container, protected from light and moisture – stable for up to 24 months |
| Shipping | Room temperature (15–25°C) for short periods (up to two weeks) – no significant degradation |
| After reconstitution | Refrigerate at 2–8°C; use within 28 days |
| Handling precautions | Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and vigorous shaking to maintain peptide integrity |
Research Protocol Considerations
MOTS-c is typically reconstituted with bacteriostatic water for laboratory research administration.
Research Dosing Considerations
In preclinical research models, MOTS-c is evaluated in microgram (mcg) quantities, with common protocols ranging from 50–200 mcg per administration. Administration is most frequently via subcutaneous or intraperitoneal injection to ensure systemic delivery to metabolic tissues. Researchers typically use reconstitution volumes of 1–3 mL for precise measurement.
MOTS-c Research FAQ
Q: Is MOTS-c approved for human use in research quantities?
A: Research-grade MOTS-c is currently available for preclinical research only. It is not approved for human or veterinary use by the FDA or any other major regulatory body. It is supplied as a lyophilized powder for laboratory research purposes only. Researchers should consult all applicable institutional and regulatory guidelines before initiating study protocols.
Q: Why is MOTS-c called an "exercise mimetic"?
A: MOTS-c is called an "exercise mimetic" because it activates many of the same metabolic pathways triggered by physical exercise. Specifically, it inhibits the folate cycle, leading to AICAR accumulation and subsequent AMPK activation. Research shows that MOTS-c can prevent diet-induced obesity and improve metabolic health in sedentary models, effectively mimicking the metabolic benefits of exercise without the physical activity.
Q: What is the folate cycle mechanism of MOTS-c?
A: A unique and defining mechanism of MOTS-c is its ability to inhibit the folate cycle and de novo purine biosynthesis. This inhibition leads to the intracellular accumulation of AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide), a well-known endogenous activator of AMPK. By naturally elevating AICAR levels, MOTS-c effectively triggers the cell's metabolic master switch without the need for synthetic drugs. This mechanism distinguishes MOTS-c from generic AMPK activators.
Q: What is the difference between MOTS-c and Epithalon?
A: While both are studied in longevity research, they target fundamentally different pathways. MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that regulates metabolic homeostasis, activates AMPK, and functions as an "exercise mimetic." Epithalon is a pineal-derived peptide that activates telomerase and promotes telomere elongation. Researchers choose MOTS-c for mitochondrial metabolism and insulin sensitivity studies and Epithalon for telomere biology and cellular aging research.
Q: Does MOTS-c have applications in sarcopenia or age-related muscle loss research?
A: Yes. MOTS-c is being investigated for its potential to counteract age-related metabolic decline and muscle loss. Research indicates it may improve mitochondrial function and insulin sensitivity in aging muscle tissue. By activating AMPK and mimicking the metabolic effects of exercise, MOTS-c represents a novel tool for studying the intersection of mitochondrial dysfunction, metabolic health, and age-related sarcopenia. More studies are needed to fully characterize its effects on muscle protein synthesis and degradation pathways.
Q: Can MOTS-c be stacked with Epithalon in research protocols?
A: Yes, researchers frequently combine MOTS-c and Epithalon in preclinical longevity studies. Because MOTS-c targets mitochondrial metabolism and insulin sensitivity while Epithalon targets telomere biology and circadian regulation, their complementary mechanisms address two distinct but critical pillars of aging. Researchers typically reconstitute each peptide separately and administer them as distinct interventions.