MOTS-c

A mitochondrially encoded peptide studied as an exercise mimetic in metabolic research.

MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded directly in mitochondrial DNA rather than in the cell nucleus. It was discovered in 2015 and is studied as an endogenous signaling molecule that is released in greater amounts during physical exertion. Research focuses on possible effects on insulin sensitivity, fat metabolism, and cellular aging.

Facts

• CAS number: 1627580-64-6
• Molecular weight: 2174.6 g/mol
• Amino acids: 16
• Purity specification: ≥ 98 % (HPLC, commercial standard)

Evidence

• In the original description, MOTS-c prevented the development of insulin resistance in mice on a high-fat diet over several weeks and restored the insulin sensitivity of young animals in old mice. Lee et al. 2015, Cell Metabolism 21(3):443-454
• In older mice, repeated administration of MOTS-c over several weeks extended median lifespan by 5 to 7 percent and improved endurance, grip strength, and balance compared with placebo. Reynolds et al. 2021, Nature Communications, DOI 10.1038/s41467-020-20790-0
• In an observational study of 20 physically active adults, serum MOTS-c levels correlated positively with jump power, maximal strength, and leg muscle mass, but not with maximal oxygen uptake. Domin et al. 2023, International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Frequently asked questions

What makes MOTS-c different from other peptides
MOTS-c is encoded directly in mitochondrial DNA rather than in the cell nucleus. It acts through the cellular energy sensor AMPK and is therefore classified as an exercise mimetic.

Is MOTS-c an approved medication
No. MOTS-c is not approved as a medication or food product in either the EU or the US and is sold exclusively as a research chemical.

How robust is the human data on MOTS-c
Limited so far. Evidence mainly consists of preclinical animal studies and one human observational study on correlation with muscle strength; controlled human intervention trials are still lacking.

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