MOTS-c

MOTS-c (mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA type-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide, MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR, encoded by a short open reading frame within the mitochondrial MT-RNR1 (12S rRNA) gene. It belongs to the family of mitochondrial-derived peptides; this product is the synthetic, unmodified linear sequence with free termini.

In its original characterisation, MOTS-c was reported to act primarily on skeletal muscle, where it inhibited the folate cycle and linked de novo purine biosynthesis and activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK); its effects on glucose handling and insulin sensitivity were examined in diet-induced mouse models. Later work showed that the peptide can translocate to the nucleus under metabolic stress in an AMPK-dependent manner and regulate nuclear gene expression, including antioxidant-response-element targets associated with NRF2. It is widely used in research on mitochondrial–nuclear communication, retrograde signalling and cellular metabolic stress responses.

Supplied as a lyophilized powder in a sealed vial.

For laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary use.