MOTS-c

MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in the mitochondrial genome and belongs to the group of mitochondrial-derived peptides. It is studied in research on cellular metabolism and mitochondrial-nuclear signaling.

Research applications

MOTS-c is used in laboratory studies of metabolic signaling, AMPK activity, adipose tissue and mitochondrial-derived peptide biology. Published work has also examined it in bone-cell and endothelial models. This product is sold for laboratory research use only.

Pathway and mechanistic context

Reports describe MOTS-c acting on the methionine-folate cycle, raising AICAR and engaging AMPK. Under metabolic stress it has been observed to move into the cell nucleus and influence gene expression, so it is studied as a link between mitochondria and the nucleus.

Preclinical summary

Mouse and rat studies have examined muscle glucose handling, adipose tissue and responses to a high-fat diet or ovariectomy. Cell-line work has looked at TGF-beta/SMAD signaling in osteoblasts and stem cells. These are laboratory and model findings.

Form and analytical testing

Supplied as a lyophilized powder. Identity and purity are normally confirmed by HPLC and mass spectrometry. Refer to the Certificate of Analysis for the lot you receive.

References

1. C. Lee, K. H. Kim, and P. Cohen, “MOTS-c: A novel mitochondrial-derived peptide regulating muscle and fat metabolism,” Free Radic. Biol. Med., vol. 100, pp. 182–187, Nov. 2016. Source
2. H. Lu et al., “MOTS-c peptide regulates adipose homeostasis to prevent ovariectomy-induced metabolic dysfunction,” J. Mol. Med. Berl. Ger., vol. 97, no. 4, pp. 473–485, Apr. 2019. Source
3. K. H. Kim, J. M. Son, B. A. Benayoun, and C. Lee, “The Mitochondrial-Encoded Peptide MOTS-c Translocates to the Nucleus to Regulate Nuclear Gene Expression in Response to Metabolic Stress,” Cell Metab., vol. 28, no. 3, pp. 516-524.e7, Sep. 2018. Source
4. S.-J. Kim et al., “The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c is a regulator of plasma metabolites and enhances insulin sensitivity,” Physiol. Rep., vol. 7, no. 13, p. e14171, Jul. 2019. Source
5. B.-T. Hu and W.-Z. Chen, “MOTS-c improves osteoporosis by promoting osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells via TGF-β/Smad pathway,” Eur. Rev. Med. Pharmacol. Sci., vol. 22, no. 21, pp. 7156–7163, Nov. 2018. Source
6. Q. Qin et al., “Downregulation of circulating MOTS-c levels in patients with coronary endothelial dysfunction,” Int. J. Cardiol., vol. 254, pp. 23–27, 01 2018. Source

Peptides are shipped lyophilized (freeze-dried), a state that keeps them stable in transit. Keep vials cold and away from light on arrival.

• Short term: refrigeration below 4°C (39°F) is generally suitable for lyophilized material held for days to months.
• Long term: a freezer at -80°C (-112°F) is preferred for storage over several months or years.
• After reconstitution: keep the vial refrigerated. Reconstituted material is generally kept for up to 30 days.