MOTS-c: Mitochondrial Peptide Research Guide

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA type-c) is a 16-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide discovered in 2015. It functions as an "exercise mimetic" that regulates metabolic homeostasis. MOTS-c is unique among peptides: - Encoded by the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene - Functions as a "mitokine" or mitochondrial hormone - Represents mitochondrial-nuclear communication MOTS-c acts on AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), the cells metabolic master switch: - Promotes glucose utilization - Enhances fatty acid oxidation - Improves insulin sensitivity During metabolic stress, MOTS-c: - Translocates to the nucleus - Regulates nuclear gene expression for metabolic adaptation - Coordinates cellular response to energy demands Research shows MOTS-c: - Blocks myostatin (muscle growth inhibitor) - Reduces muscle atrophy signaling - Maintains muscle mass during metabolic stress Studies demonstrate: - 11.9-fold increase in skeletal muscle MOTS-c after exercise - Elevated circulating levels in blood post-exercise - Sustained elevation after training sessions Research shows enhanced: - Physical capacity across all age groups - Motor coordination and running capacity - Healthspan with late-life treatment | Function | Observed Effect | |----------|-----------------| | Glucose metabolism | Improved insulin sensitivity, reduced blood sugar | | Fat metabolism | Increased oxidation, reduced obesity markers | | Inflammation | Decreased pro-inflammatory markers | | Body composition | Reduced fat mass, increased lean mass | | Insulin resistance | Reversal in diet and age-dependent models | - Type 2 diabetes mechanisms - Metabolic syndrome studies - Aging and longevity research - Muscle preservation investigation - Exercise physiology MOTS-c is highly unstable: - 25% decrease at 4°C for 24 hours - 85-90% decrease at room temperature for 2-3 hours - Must be stored frozen at -20°C or colder Note: This compound is for research purposes only.