Description
MOTS-c Vial — Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide for Metabolic Signalling Research (40mg)
What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded by a short open reading frame (sORF) within the mitochondrial 12S ribosomal RNA gene. It belongs to a recently discovered class of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) that function as signalling molecules, communicating the metabolic status of mitochondria to the rest of the cell and to distant tissues.
The discovery of MOTS-c and related MDPs has opened up a new field of research in inter-organelle communication. Unlike nuclear-encoded peptides, MOTS-c is encoded by mitochondrial DNA, which has a distinct genetic code and evolutionary origin. This makes it a unique tool for studying how mitochondria — traditionally viewed as energy-producing organelles — actively participate in cellular signalling networks through peptide mediators.
Mechanism of Research Interest
MOTS-c exerts its biological effects through several well-characterised pathways:
- AMPK Activation: MOTS-c has been shown to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a master cellular energy sensor. AMPK activation triggers catabolic processes that generate ATP while inhibiting anabolic pathways, effectively shifting cellular metabolism toward energy production.
- Insulin Sensitivity Signalling: Research indicates MOTS-c modulates insulin signalling cascades, enhancing insulin sensitivity through effects on the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt pathway in target tissues.
- Folate Cycle Regulation: MOTS-c interacts with the folate-methionine metabolic cycle, influencing one-carbon metabolism and purine biosynthesis — connecting mitochondrial signalling to fundamental cellular building block synthesis.
- Nuclear Gene Regulation: As a mitochondrial retrograde signalling molecule, MOTS-c can translocate to the nucleus under certain metabolic conditions and influence the expression of nuclear-encoded genes involved in metabolic adaptation.
Research Applications
- Mitochondrial Signalling Research: Investigating how mitochondrial-derived peptides communicate organelle status and influence cellular metabolism.
- Insulin Sensitivity Studies: Exploring the relationship between mitochondrial peptide signalling and insulin signalling cascades.
- Energy Metabolism Research: Studying the role of AMPK activation in metabolic adaptation and cellular energy homeostasis.
- Inter-Organelle Communication: Examining retrograde signalling from mitochondria to the nucleus and its role in metabolic gene regulation.
- Age-Related Metabolic Research: Investigating mitochondrial-derived peptides as potential mediators of age-related metabolic changes.
Product Description
Each vial contains 40mg of lyophilised MOTS-c peptide as a sterile, freeze-dried preparation. The peptide is supplied as a white to off-white lyophilised powder in a sealed glass vial. The 40mg quantity provides ample material for multiple research applications.
Manufactured under controlled laboratory conditions with quality verification. The lyophilised format ensures stability during transport and storage.
Product Specifications
- Compound: MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA-c)
- Type: Mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP)
- Amino Acid Length: 16
- Quantity: 40mg per vial
- Purity: ≥98% (HPLC verified)
- Form: Lyophilised sterile powder
- Packaging: Individually sealed, sterile glass vial
- Storage: 2-8°C (refrigerated). Protect from light and moisture.
What’s Included
Each order includes 1 × 3ml Bacteriostatic Water (BAC Water) for reconstituting the lyophilised powder. No additional reconstitution solution is required.
Key Research Benefits
- Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide: Retrograde signalling molecule for organelle-to-nucleus communication research.
- AMPK Activation: Master energy sensor pathway for metabolic adaptation studies.
- Insulin Signalling Research: Modulates IRS-1/PI3K/Akt cascades in insulin sensitivity investigations.
- One-Carbon Metabolism: Interacts with folate-methionine cycle for metabolic integration research.
Reconstitution Guidelines
For experienced laboratory personnel only. This lyophilised powder must be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water prior to research use.
- Allow the vial to equilibrate to room temperature (15–25°C) before reconstitution.
- Wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab and allow it to dry.
- Using a sterile syringe, add the required volume of Bacteriostatic Water by injecting slowly down the inner wall of the vial — do not aim the stream directly at the lyophilised cake.
- Gently swirl the vial until the powder is fully dissolved. Do not shake vigorously, as this can denature the peptide.
- Visually inspect the reconstituted solution — it should be clear and free of particulate matter.
- Store reconstituted solutions at 2–8°C and use within the timeframe defined in your research protocol. Discard any unused solution after the recommended period.
Important Notice
This product is for research and laboratory purposes only. Not for human or veterinary consumption. Not for medical use. Not evaluated by SAHPRA. Information is for educational reference only. Researchers must comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and institutional research guidelines.




