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What Is MOTS-c? A Research Peptide Overview
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) — a short peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome rather than the nuclear genome. That unusual origin makes it a distinctive subject in metabolic and mitochondrial-signaling research. This overview covers what MOTS-c is, what makes it different from other research peptides, and how to source research-grade material.
MOTS-c at a glance
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Name | MOTS-c (Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c) |
| Class | Mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) |
| Length | 16 amino acids |
| Origin | Encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA region |
| Appearance | White lyophilized powder |
What makes MOTS-c unusual
Most peptides are fragments of proteins encoded in the cell nucleus. MOTS-c is encoded within the mitochondrial genome — a small, distinct set of genes inside the mitochondria. This is why it is classified as a mitochondrial-derived peptide, a relatively new category in research. Its discovery contributed to the idea that the mitochondrial genome encodes signaling molecules, not only components of the respiratory chain.
What MOTS-c is studied for
In laboratory and preclinical research, MOTS-c is studied for:
- Metabolic signaling — models involving AMPK, a central cellular energy-sensing pathway.
- Mitochondrial biology — how a mitochondrial-derived peptide participates in cellular stress responses.
- Exercise-physiology models — animal studies of metabolic adaptation.
MOTS-c offered here is a research chemical for laboratory use only. Not for use in humans or animals.
MOTS-c ships as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder. Researchers refer to the lot-specific COA and validated laboratory protocols for any handling observations.
How research-grade material is verified
Every batch from a credible US supplier should arrive with a third-party Certificate of Analysis (COA) for that exact lot. Peptide Technologies publishes a COA on every batch and ties it to a QR code on the vial. A complete COA reports:
- Identity — mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) confirming the observed mass matches the theoretical mass of the target sequence.
- Purity — reverse-phase HPLC, reported as percent peak area at a fixed wavelength (typically 220 nm). Research-grade material is ≥99% by area.
- Net content — gravimetric confirmation the vial holds the stated mass within tolerance.
- Endotoxin — LAL assay below research-grade thresholds.
If a vendor cannot show a lot-specific COA, you cannot verify what is in the vial. Browse the full COA library →
How to source research-grade material
For laboratory research, sourcing quality comes down to a few checks:
- Lot-specific COA from an accredited, independent laboratory — not a generic marketing PDF.
- HPLC purity ≥99% by peak area, with the chromatogram shown.
- US synthesis and finishing, so the chain of custody is documented end to end.
- Cold-chain shipping for lyophilized material, so the product arrives stable.
Peptide Technologies meets each of these and publishes a third-party COA for every lot. Browse the public COA library →
FAQ
What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome, studied in metabolic and mitochondrial-signaling research.
What is a mitochondrial-derived peptide?
A mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) is a short peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome rather than the cell nucleus. MOTS-c is one of the best-known examples.
What pathway is MOTS-c studied around?
MOTS-c is studied around the AMPK energy-sensing pathway and mitochondrial stress responses in cell and animal models.
How is MOTS-c verified?
Research-grade MOTS-c is verified by HPLC for purity, mass spectrometry for identity, and an LAL endotoxin assay, reported on a lot-specific third-party COA.
Is MOTS-c a research chemical?
Yes. MOTS-c supplied by Peptide Technologies is a research chemical for laboratory use only. Not for use in humans or animals.