What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the mitochondrial genome. It has emerged as a significant regulator of metabolic homeostasis, with demonstrated effects on glucose utilisation, insulin sensitivity, and cellular stress responses.
MOTS-c Structure
| Peptide Name | MOTS-c |
| Synonyms | Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c peptide |
| Sequence | MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₀₁H₁₇₀N₃₄O₂₆S |
| Molecular Weight | 2,174.73 g/mol |
MOTS-c Research
1. MOTS-c and Insulin Sensitivity
Preclinical studies demonstrate that MOTS-c administration improves insulin sensitivity by activating AMPK pathways and enhancing glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells.
2. MOTS-c and Obesity Models
In high-fat diet mouse models, MOTS-c prevented obesity and reduced visceral fat accumulation, suggesting a role in regulating energy balance.
3. MOTS-c and Aging
Research shows MOTS-c levels decline with age. Exogenous administration in aged animal models has demonstrated restoration of metabolic function, positioning it as an important peptide in longevity research.
Future MOTS-c Research
Ongoing studies are investigating MOTS-c in the context of type 2 diabetes, age-related metabolic decline, exercise physiology, and mitochondrial disease models.
MOTS-c Resources
- Lee C, et al. – The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis. Cell Metabolism, 2015.
- Kim SJ, et al. – Mitochondrially derived peptides as novel regulators of metabolism. J Physiol, 2017.


Reviews
There are no reviews yet.