THIS PRODUCT IS INTENDED AS A RESEARCH CHEMICAL ONLY. This designation allows the use of research chemicals strictly for in vitro testing and laboratory experimentation only. All product information available on this website is for educational purposes only. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law. This product should only be handled by licensed, qualified professionals. This product is not a drug, food, or cosmetic and may not be misbranded, misused or mislabled as a drug, food or cosmetic.

MOTS-c Overview

MOTS-c is a short peptide encoded in the mitochondrial genome and a member of the larger group of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs). MDPs have recently been found to be bioactive hormones that play important roles in mitochondrial communication and energy regulation. Originally thought to be related to the mitochondria only, new research has revealed that many MDPs are active in the cell nucleus and that some even make their way into the blood stream to have systemic effects. MOTS-c is a newly identified MDP that has, to date, been found to play important roles in metabolism, weight regulation, exercise capacity, longevity, and even processes leading to disease states like osteoporosis. MOTS-c has been found in the nucleus of cells as well as in the general circulation, making it a bonafide natural hormone. The peptide has been targeted for intensive research in the last five years due to its therapeutic potential.

MOTS-c Structure

MOTS-C Structure, De BQUB17-JHolguera - Trabajo propio, CC BY-SA 4.0

Sequence: Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg Molecular Formula: C101H152N28O22S2Molecular Weight: 2174.64 g/mol PubChem SID: 255386757 CAS Number: 1627580-64-6 Synonyms: Mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c, MT-RNR1

MOTS-c Research

Muscle Metabolism

Research in mice indicates the MOTS-c can reverse age-dependent insulin resistance in muscles, thereby improving muscle uptake of glucose. It does this by improving skeletal muscle response to AMPK activation, which in turn increases the expression of glucose transporters[1]. It is important to note that this activation is independent of the insulin pathway and thus offers an alternative means of boosting glucose uptake by muscles when insulin is ineffective or in insufficient quantity. The net result is improved muscle function, enhanced muscle growth, and decreased functional insulin resistance.

Fat Metabolism

Research in mice has shown that low levels of estrogen lead to increased fat mass and dysfunction of normal adipose tissue. This scenario increases the risk of developing insulin resistance and, subsequently, the risk of developing diabetes. Supplementing mice with MOTS-c, however, increases brown fat function and reduces the accumulation of adipose tissue. It also appears that the peptide prevents adipose dysfunction and the adipose inflammation that typically precedes insulin resistance[2].

It appears that at least part of the influence that MOTS-c has on fat metabolism is mediated through activation of the AMPK pathway. This well-defined pathway is turned on when cellular energy levels are low and it drives the uptake of both glucose and fatty acids by cells for metabolism. It is also the pathway that is activated in ketogenic diets, like the Atkin’s diet, which promote fat metabolism while protecting lean body mass. MOTS-c targets the methionine-folate cycle, increases AICAR levels, and activates AMPK.

New research suggests that MOTS-c can actually leave the mitochondria and make its way to the nucleus where the peptide can affect nuclear gene expression. Following metabolic stress, MOTS-c has been shown to regulate nuclear genes involved in glucose restriction and antioxidant responses[3].

MOTS-c has effects in both the mitochondria and the nucleus.

Evidence from mice indicates that MOTS-c, particularly in the setting of obesity, is an important regulator of sphingolipid, monoacylglycerol, and dicarboxylate metabolism. By down-regulating these pathways and increasing beta-oxidation, MOTS-c appears to prevent fat accumulation. Some of these effects are almost certainly mediated via MOTS-c action in the nucleus. Research on MOTS-c has led to a new hypothesis about fat deposition and insulin resistance that is gaining traction in the scientific community and may offer a new means of intervening in the pathophysiology of obesity and diabetes. It appears that dysregulation of fat metabolism in mitochondria may result in a lack of fat oxidation. This leads to higher levels of circulating fat and thus forces the body to boost insulin levels in an effort to clear lipids from the bloodstream. The consequence of this action is increased fat deposition and a homeostatic change in the body as it adapts to (and becomes resistant to) chronically higher levels of insulin

MOTS-c supplementation in rats prevents mitochondrial dysfunction and prevents the accumulation of fat even in the setting of a high-fat diet.

Insulin Sensitivity

Research measuring MOTS-c levels in insulin sensitive and insulin resistant individuals has shown that the protein is associated with insulin sensitivity only in lean individuals. In other words, MOTS-c appears to be important in the pathogenesis of insulin insensitivity, but not in the maintenance of the condition[6]. Scientists speculate that the peptide maybe a useful means of monitoring pre-diabetic lean individuals and that changes in MOTS-c levels could act as an early warning sign of potential insulin insensitivity. Supplementation with MOTS-c in this setting could help to stave off insulin resistance and thus the development of diabetes. Research in mice thus far has been promising, but more work is needed to understand the full impact of MOTS-c on insulin regulation.

Osteoporosis

MOTS-c appears to play a role in the synthesis of type I collagen by osteoblasts in bone. Research in osteoblast cell lines shows that MOTS-c regulates the TGF-beta/SMAD pathway responsible for the health and survival of osteoblasts. By promoting osteoblast survival, MOTS-c helps to improve type I collagen synthesis and therefore the strength and integrity of bone[7].

Additional research in osteoporosis has revealed that MOTS-c promotes the differentiation of bone marrow stem cells via the same TGF-beta/SMAD pathway. In the study, this directly led to increased osteogenesis (formation of new bone)[8]. Thus, not only does MOTS-c protect osteoblasts and promote their survival, it promotes their development from stem cells as well.

Longevity

Research on MOTS-c has identified a specific change in the peptide that is associated with longevity in certain human populations, such as the Japanese. The change in the MOTS-c gene, in this case, leads to the substitution of a glutamate residue for the lysine that is normally found in position 14 of the protein. It is not clear how this change affects the functional aspects of the protein, but that it does is almost certain as glutamate has radically different properties than lysine and thus would change both the structure and the function of the MOTS-c gene. More research is required to understand how this change affects function, but it is found exclusively in people with Northeast Asian ancestry and is thought to play a role in the exceptional longevity seen in this population[9].

According to Dr. Changhan David Lee, a researcher at the School of Gerontology at USC Leonard Davis, mitchondrial biology holds the keep to extending both lifespan and healthspan in humans. The mitochondria, being the single most important metabolic organelle, is “strongly implicated in aging and age-related diseases.” Until now, dietary restriction offered the only reliable means of affecting mitochondrial function and thus longevity. Peptides like MOTS-c, however, may make it possible to directly impact mitochondrial function in a more profound way.

Heart Health

Research measuring MOTS-c levels in humans undergoing coronary angiography has revealed that patients with lower levels of MOTS-c in the blood have higher levels of endothelial cell dysfunction. Endothelial cells line the inside of blood vessels and are integral to the regulation of blood pressure, blood clotting, and plaque formation. Additional research in rats suggests that while MOTS-c does not directly affect blood vessel responsiveness, it does sensitize endothelial cells to the effects of other signaling molecules, like acetylcholine. Supplementing rats with MOTS-c has been shown to improve endothelial function and improve microvascular and epicardial blood vessel function[10].

MOTS-c is not alone among mitochondria-derived peptides (MDPs) in affecting heart health. Research suggests that at least three MDPs play roles in protecting cardiac cells against stress and inflammation. There is good reason to believe that MDP dysregulation is also an important factor in the development of cardiovascular disease. The peptides may even be important factors in reperfusion injury and, as pointed out above, in endothelial function[11].

MOTS-c exhibits minimal side effects, low oral and excellent subcutaneous bioavailability in mice. Per kg dosage in mice does not scale to humans. MOTS-c for sale at Peptide  review is limited to educational and scientific research only, not for human consumption. Only buy MOTS-c if you are a licensed researcher.

Article Author

The above literature was researched, edited and organized by Dr. Logan, M.D. Dr. Logan holds a doctorate degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and a B.S. in molecular biology.

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a naturally occurring mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) that has become one of the most exciting areas of research in metabolism, mitochondrial biology, aging science, insulin sensitivity, exercise physiology, and cellular energy regulation. Unlike traditional signaling peptides encoded within the nuclear genome, MOTS-c is encoded by mitochondrial DNA, making it a unique research target for understanding mitochondrial communication and metabolic regulation.

As interest in mitochondrial-derived peptides continues to grow, researchers frequently compare MOTS-c suppliers based on purity, analytical testing, pricing, manufacturing quality, and supplier transparency.

This MOTS-c Vendor Price Comparison Guide helps researchers evaluate suppliers using objective criteria including:

• Product Pricing

• Cost Per Milligram

• Product Purity

• Third-Party Testing

• Certificate of Analysis (COA)

• Vendor Reputation

• Customer Reviews

• Shipping Performance

• Product Availability

• Overall Value

Whether you're searching for the most affordable MOTS-c supplier, the highest-purity research-grade product, or vendors offering extensive laboratory verification, this guide provides a framework for comparing research peptide suppliers.

Explore MOTS-c Vendors by Criteria

Most Popular MOTS-c Vendors

Compare suppliers frequently selected by metabolism and longevity researchers.

Highest Reviewed MOTS-c Vendors

Discover peptide suppliers with strong customer satisfaction and positive marketplace reputations.

Lowest Price MOTS-c Vendors

Identify vendors offering competitive pricing and attractive cost-per-milligram value.

Highest Purity MOTS-c Vendors

Review suppliers providing transparent purity verification and analytical testing.

Best Value MOTS-c Vendors

Compare pricing, product quality, documentation, and customer support.

Fastest Shipping MOTS-c Vendors

Evaluate order fulfillment, packaging quality, and shipping reliability.

Newly Listed MOTS-c Vendors

Explore recently added suppliers offering MOTS-c research peptides.

What Is MOTS-c?

Overview

MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA.

Researchers investigate MOTS-c because of its relationship with:

• Mitochondrial signaling

• Energy metabolism

• Insulin sensitivity

• Exercise physiology

• Fat metabolism

• Glucose regulation

• Healthy aging

• Cellular stress adaptation

Unlike many hormones that originate from the nucleus, MOTS-c is produced from the mitochondrial genome and has been identified in cells, tissues, and circulation.

Molecular Characteristics

Peptide Information

Researchers evaluating MOTS-c products should carefully review molecular specifications and analytical documentation.

Peptide Name

MOTS-c

Alternative Names

• Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c

• MT-RNR1

Amino Acid Sequence

Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg

Molecular Formula

C101H152N28O22S2

Molecular Weight

2174.64 g/mol

PubChem SID

255386757

CAS Number

1627580-64-6

Classification

Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide (MDP)

Research Category

Metabolism & Mitochondrial Research

Why Researchers Compare MOTS-c Vendors

Research reproducibility depends heavily on peptide quality and manufacturing consistency.

Differences among suppliers may include:

• Purity levels

• Batch consistency

• Stability testing

• Manufacturing standards

• Product documentation

• Storage conditions

• Shipping procedures

• Quality-control systems

Careful supplier selection may improve experimental reliability and consistency.

How We Compare MOTS-c Vendors

Third-Party Laboratory Testing

Independent testing remains one of the strongest indicators of peptide quality.

Researchers should prioritize suppliers offering:

• Third-party laboratory testing

• Purity verification

• Identity confirmation

• Batch-specific reports

Certificate of Analysis (COA)

A quality COA should contain:

• Batch number

• Testing date

• Purity percentage

• Identity verification

• Analytical methodology

Product Purity

Purity remains one of the most important considerations when evaluating research peptides.

Higher-purity products generally contribute to more consistent research outcomes.

Cost Per Milligram

Comparing vial prices alone can be misleading.

Cost Per Milligram Formula

Product Price ÷ Total Milligrams = Cost Per Milligram

This metric allows researchers to compare suppliers more accurately.

Customer Reviews

Customer experiences often provide insight regarding:

• Product consistency

• Packaging quality

• Shipping reliability

• Customer support

• Overall purchasing experience

Vendor Reputation

Established suppliers often demonstrate:

• Strong quality-control standards

• Transparent testing programs

• Reliable inventory management

• Positive marketplace reputation

Current Research & Evidence

Mitochondrial Biology Research

The primary focus of MOTS-c research involves mitochondrial signaling and metabolic regulation.

Researchers continue investigating:

• Mitochondrial communication

• Cellular energy regulation

• Metabolic adaptation

• Stress-response pathways

• Mitochondrial gene expression

This remains the foundation of MOTS-c science.

Mitochondrial Hormone Research

MOTS-c is considered part of a growing family of mitochondrial-derived peptides.

Researchers investigate how these peptides contribute to:

• Cellular communication

• Energy homeostasis

• Organ-system coordination

• Metabolic signaling

This remains one of the fastest-growing fields in mitochondrial biology.

Key Findings on MOTS-c Research

Skeletal Muscle Research

Researchers continue investigating MOTS-c because of its relationship with muscle metabolism.

Areas of investigation include:

• Glucose uptake

• Skeletal muscle function

• Metabolic flexibility

• Exercise adaptation

• Cellular energy utilization

These studies continue to drive significant interest in MOTS-c.

AMPK Research

One of the most important areas of MOTS-c research involves AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK).

Researchers examine pathways involving:

• Energy sensing

• Nutrient signaling

• Metabolic adaptation

• Fat oxidation

• Glucose metabolism

AMPK remains a central regulator of cellular energy balance.

Fat Metabolism Research

Scientists continue studying MOTS-c because of its relationship with:

• Adipose tissue biology

• Fat oxidation

• Lipid metabolism

• Energy expenditure

• Metabolic efficiency

Additional research remains ongoing.

Insulin Sensitivity Research

Researchers investigate pathways involving:

• Glucose regulation

• Insulin responsiveness

• Metabolic signaling

• Prediabetes-associated biology

• Cellular glucose uptake

This remains one of the most active areas of MOTS-c research.

Nuclear Gene Regulation Research

One of the unique characteristics of MOTS-c is its apparent ability to influence nuclear signaling.

Researchers continue investigating:

• Nuclear gene expression

• Cellular stress adaptation

• Antioxidant responses

• Metabolic gene regulation

These findings have expanded scientific understanding of mitochondrial communication.

Exercise Performance Research

Scientists continue evaluating pathways associated with:

• Physical performance

• Exercise capacity

• Muscular energy utilization

• Endurance-related adaptations

• Mitochondrial efficiency

This remains an emerging field of MOTS-c research.

Osteoporosis Research

Research suggests MOTS-c may play roles in pathways involving:

• Osteoblast biology

• Bone formation

• Type I collagen production

• Stem-cell differentiation

• Skeletal health

Additional investigations remain ongoing.

TGF-β / SMAD Research

Researchers continue studying MOTS-c because of its interaction with signaling pathways involved in:

• Cellular development

• Bone physiology

• Tissue remodeling

• Osteogenic differentiation

These pathways remain important research targets.

Longevity Research

MOTS-c has generated substantial interest within aging research.

Scientists investigate pathways involving:

• Healthy aging

• Mitochondrial efficiency

• Cellular resilience

• Metabolic adaptation

• Longevity-associated genetics

This continues to be a major area of investigation.

Cardiovascular Research

Researchers continue examining MOTS-c in studies involving:

• Endothelial function

• Vascular signaling

• Microvascular biology

• Cardiovascular metabolism

• Cellular stress responses

Further research remains ongoing.

Why Researchers Study MOTS-c

MOTS-c remains one of the most versatile mitochondrial-derived peptides under investigation.

Common research applications include:

• Mitochondrial biology

• Energy metabolism

• Exercise physiology

• Longevity research

• Insulin sensitivity

• Glucose regulation

• Bone biology

• Cardiovascular science

Its broad biological relevance continues to drive scientific interest worldwide.

Research Limitations

Most findings involving MOTS-c originate from:

• Cell-culture studies

• Animal models

• Laboratory investigations

• Early-stage translational research

Additional studies remain necessary to fully characterize biological mechanisms and long-term effects.

Research findings should not be interpreted as evidence of established therapeutic applications.

Product Quality & Analytical Testing

Why Testing Matters

Research-grade MOTS-c products should undergo testing to verify:

• Identity

• Purity

• Stability

• Potency

• Batch consistency

Common Testing Methods

High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

Used to evaluate purity and identify impurities.

Mass Spectrometry (MS)

Used to verify molecular identity and composition.

Identity Verification Testing

Confirms peptide authenticity.

Stability Testing

Measures peptide integrity under storage conditions.

Batch Consistency Testing

Evaluates manufacturing reproducibility.

Understanding MOTS-c Pricing

Several factors influence pricing among peptide suppliers.

Product Purity

Higher-purity products often command premium pricing.

Specialized Synthesis

MOTS-c is a relatively complex mitochondrial-derived peptide that may require specialized manufacturing procedures.

Analytical Verification

Comprehensive testing improves transparency while increasing production costs.

Research Demand

Growing interest in metabolism, aging, and mitochondrial science continues to increase demand.

Vendor Reputation

Trusted suppliers frequently charge more due to established quality-assurance systems.

MOTS-c Vendor Evaluation Checklist

Quality Verification

✅ Third-party testing available

✅ Certificate of Analysis provided

✅ Identity verification documented

✅ Purity information disclosed

✅ Batch-specific testing available

Vendor Reliability

✅ Positive customer reviews

✅ Transparent company information

✅ Responsive customer support

✅ Reliable inventory availability

Purchasing Experience

✅ Secure checkout process

✅ Shipment tracking available

✅ Clear refund policies

✅ Reliable order fulfillment

Red Flags When Comparing Vendors

Testing Concerns

❌ No third-party testing

❌ Missing COAs

❌ Unverified purity claims

❌ Outdated laboratory reports

Transparency Issues

❌ Hidden product specifications

❌ Missing batch information

❌ Limited documentation

❌ No company contact information

Service Problems

❌ Frequent inventory shortages

❌ Poor communication

❌ Negative customer reviews

❌ Unclear shipping policies

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MOTS-c?

MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA and investigated for its role in metabolic regulation, mitochondrial communication, and cellular energy balance.

What is MOTS-c used for in research?

Researchers investigate MOTS-c in studies involving mitochondrial biology, glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, skeletal muscle function, exercise physiology, fat metabolism, osteoporosis, cardiovascular biology, and longevity research.

Why compare MOTS-c vendors?

Purity, analytical testing, documentation quality, pricing, and supplier reliability can vary significantly among vendors.

What should researchers review before purchasing?

Researchers should evaluate:

• Certificate of Analysis (COA)

• Third-party testing

• Identity verification

• Purity confirmation

• Vendor reputation

• Customer reviews

Why is third-party testing important?

Independent laboratory testing helps verify peptide identity, purity, and batch consistency while improving transparency.

Is the cheapest supplier always the best option?

No. Product quality, laboratory verification, documentation standards, and supplier reliability are often more important than price alone.

How often should vendor comparisons be updated?

Pricing, supplier policies, inventory availability, and testing reports can change regularly and should be reviewed frequently.

Final Thoughts

MOTS-c remains one of the most exciting mitochondrial-derived peptides in modern biomedical research because of its relationship with mitochondrial signaling, energy metabolism, insulin sensitivity, skeletal muscle biology, fat metabolism, cardiovascular function, osteoporosis research, and longevity science. Ongoing investigations continue to expand our understanding of how mitochondria communicate with the nucleus and regulate whole-body metabolic health.

When comparing MOTS-c vendors, researchers should prioritize purity verification, third-party laboratory testing, Certificate of Analysis availability, supplier reputation, and overall value rather than focusing solely on price. A structured vendor-comparison approach can help identify suppliers capable of meeting rigorous research-quality standards.