What is MOTS-C?
MOTS-C (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA type-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within an open reading frame of the mitochondrial 12S ribosomal RNA gene (MT-RNR1). It was discovered and characterised by Chang Lee and colleagues at the University of Southern California in 2015, representing a novel class of mitochondrial-derived bioactive peptides (MDPs) that challenge the classical view of mitochondrial DNA as encoding only components of the respiratory chain.
The mechanistic interest in MOTS-C lies in its capacity to translocate from the mitochondria to the nucleus under conditions of metabolic stress, where it functions as a transcriptional regulator of nuclear gene programmes. Specifically, MOTS-C activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) — the primary cellular energy sensor that is also the key mediator of exercise-induced metabolic adaptations — through its effects on the folate cycle and AICAR accumulation.
ClaraScience supplies MOTS-C in 10mg lyophilised vials, HPLC-tested to ≥99.0% purity. Storage at −20°C is recommended for this compound. For laboratory research use only.
Origin. Encoded within mitochondrial DNA (MT-RNR1) — a mitochondrial-derived bioactive peptide, not a synthetic hormone analogue.
Mechanism. Activates AMPK via folate cycle/AICAR pathway — the same energy-sensing kinase activated by exercise and metformin.
Storage. −20°C recommended for this compound (unlike most peptides where 2–8°C suffices).
Research Background
The discovery of MOTS-C was published in Cell Metabolism by Lee et al. (2015;21:443–454) in a paper that introduced the concept of mitochondrial-derived peptides as a new class of bioactive signalling molecules. The paper demonstrated that MOTS-C administration in mice improved running capacity, body composition, and insulin sensitivity — effects partially recapitulating exercise training adaptations, which led to the "exercise mimetic" characterisation.
Subsequent research has investigated MOTS-C in multiple contexts including: insulin sensitivity and glucose disposal in skeletal muscle cells; mitochondrial stress responses; age-related physical decline models; and potential interactions with exercise training. Plasma MOTS-C levels have been observed to decline with age in human cross-sectional studies, adding to the research interest from a longevity biology perspective.
MOTS-C is frequently studied alongside NAD+ and SS-31 (Elamipretide) in comprehensive mitochondrial biology research programmes that investigate the interconnected systems of mitochondrial signalling, energy metabolism, and ageing.
Key citation Lee C et al. "The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance." Cell Metab. 2015;21(3):443–454.
Compound Specifications
| Common Name |
MOTS-C (Mitochondrial-derived peptide) |
| Structure |
16 amino acids · MT-RNR1 encoded |
| Molecular Weight |
2174.73 g/mol |
| Purity (HPLC) |
≥99.0% (99.1% verified this batch) |
| Vial Size |
10mg lyophilised powder |
| Storage |
−20°C recommended (unlike most peptides) |
| Primary Reference |
Lee C et al., Cell Metab 2015;21:443–454 |
Storage & Handling
Important: MOTS-C storage requirements differ from most peptides. −20°C storage is recommended for this compound.
- Unopened vial: −20°C recommended. 2–8°C for short-term (up to 4 weeks) only.
- After reconstitution: 2–8°C, use within 14 days. Minimise freeze-thaw cycles.
- Reconstitution: Sterile bacteriostatic water. Use our free reconstitution calculator.
Full protocols: Storage & Handling Guide.
Ordering & Pricing — Australia
| Quantity |
Price per vial |
Saving |
| 1–4 vials |
$89.95 AUD |
— |
| 5–9 vials |
$79.95 AUD |
Save 11% |
| 10+ vials |
$74.95 AUD |
Save 17% |
Free priority tracked shipping on orders over $250 AUD. 24-hour dispatch. Wholesale enquiries welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MOTS-C?
MOTS-C is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA (MT-RNR1 gene). It activates AMPK and regulates metabolic gene programmes in response to cellular energy stress. It is classified as a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP). For laboratory research use only.
Why is MOTS-C called an exercise mimetic?
MOTS-C activates AMPK — the primary energy-sensing kinase also activated by exercise. In mouse studies (Lee et al., Cell Metab 2015), MOTS-C improved running capacity and insulin sensitivity, partially replicating some metabolic effects of exercise training in preclinical models.
How does MOTS-C compare to SS-31?
MOTS-C and SS-31 (Elamipretide) both target mitochondrial biology but through very different mechanisms. MOTS-C activates nuclear AMPK signalling by translocating to the nucleus; SS-31 binds cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane to improve electron transport chain efficiency and reduce ROS production.
What storage temperature does MOTS-C require?
−20°C is recommended for MOTS-C — stricter than most peptides which tolerate 2–8°C. ClaraScience ships MOTS-C from our Australian warehouse.
Is MOTS-C available in Australia?
ClaraScience stocks MOTS-C in our Australian warehouse. 10mg vials, research-grade, dispatched within 24 hours. For laboratory research use only.
