Description
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene, part of the family of mitochondrial-derived peptides. OxygenLab supplies MOTS-c as a lyophilized powder (10 mg per vial), third-party tested; published certificates are on our COA page.
MOTS-c Specifications
| Compound | MOTS-c |
|---|---|
| Sequence / structure | Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg (16 aa) |
| Molecular formula | C101H152N28O22S2 |
| Molecular weight | 2174.6 g/mol |
| CAS number | 1627580-64-6 |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Amount per vial | 10 mg |
| Purity | Third-party tested by HPLC and MS (COA available on request) |
Formula, molecular weight and CAS number per PubChem.
Research Overview
MOTS-c is studied in metabolic and mitochondrial research, including AMPK signalling and insulin-sensitivity pathways in rodent models.
The 2015 Cell Metabolism paper that first characterised it is the most-cited starting point for this research area.
Selected Research References
- The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance, Cell Metab, 2015.
- MOTS-c: A promising mitochondrial-derived peptide for therapeutic exploitation, Front Endocrinol, 2023.
MOTS-c: Research Background
MOTS-c was first described in 2015 by researchers at the University of Southern California. It is encoded by a short open reading frame inside the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene, making it one of a small family of mitochondrial-derived peptides alongside humanin.
Mouse studies linked MOTS-c to the folate cycle and AMPK activation, with skeletal muscle identified as a major target tissue. A 2018 study reported that MOTS-c moves from the cytoplasm to the nucleus under metabolic stress and influences nuclear gene expression, an example of mitochondria-to-nucleus (retrograde) signalling.
These findings make MOTS-c a reference compound in research on how mitochondria communicate with the rest of the cell.
What the MOTS-c COA Confirms
OxygenLab products are tested by independent third-party laboratories. HPLC reports purity as the main peak’s share of total peak area, and mass spectrometry confirms identity against the expected molecular weight of 2174.6 g/mol. Published certificates are on our COA page, and others are available on request; match the lot number on your vial to the report before use in an experiment.
Related Research Compounds
Laboratories working with MOTS-c often also reference: NAD+, Glutathione.
More Questions About MOTS-c
Where is MOTS-c encoded?
In the mitochondrial genome, within the 12S rRNA gene, rather than in nuclear DNA.
What is a mitochondrial-derived peptide?
A peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA. MOTS-c and humanin are the best-studied examples.
Storage and Handling
- Store lyophilized powder at -20°C for long-term storage, protected from light and moisture.
- Short-term storage at 2–8°C is acceptable for unopened vials.
- Allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening to limit moisture uptake.
- Record batch and lot numbers for every preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the purity of MOTS-c verified?
OxygenLab products are tested by independent third-party laboratories for identity and purity (HPLC and mass spectrometry). A certificate for this product is available on request; contact us. Published certificates are on our COA page.
How should lyophilized MOTS-c be stored?
Store unopened vials at -20°C, protected from light and moisture. Short-term storage at 2–8°C is acceptable.
Is MOTS-c intended for human use?
No. MOTS-c is sold strictly for laboratory research use and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related Research Guides
- How to read a peptide certificate of analysis
- What HPLC purity means for research peptides
- How to store lyophilized peptides
Research use only. This product is supplied for in-vitro laboratory research and analytical use only. It is not for human or animal use, and not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. See our Legal & Compliance policy.










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