Research Compendium/MOTS-C
Anti-Ageing & LongevityResearch OnlyNot For Human Consumption

MOTS-C

Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame Twelve Peptide C · Mito Boost peptide

Mitochondria-derived peptide encoded in the 12S rRNA gene - metabolic regulator with exercise-mimetic and longevity research applications.

MECHANISM OF ACTION

MOTS-C is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA - one of the first peptides discovered to be mitochondrially encoded and act as a systemic hormone. It activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) - a master metabolic regulator analogous to the signal produced by exercise. MOTS-C also upregulates the folate cycle and methionine metabolism, reduces ROS, and has demonstrated exercise-mimetic effects in aged mice. Circulating levels decline with age and obesity, positioning it as a potential longevity biomarker and intervention target.

RESEARCH APPLICATIONS

  • AMPK activation and metabolic flexibility research
  • Exercise-mimetic modelling (physical performance without exercise)
  • Insulin sensitivity and T2D models
  • Longevity and age-related metabolic decline
  • Shredded stack - adipose research via metabolic rate modulation

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

Exercise Mimetic in Aged Mice

2021

MOTS-C injections in 12-month-old mice restored exercise capacity, muscle function, and metabolic flexibility to levels comparable to young animals.

Ref: Reynolds et al., Nature Aging

AMPK-Mediated Insulin Sensitisation

2015

MOTS-C administration reversed high-fat diet-induced insulin resistance in mouse models via AMPK/GLUT4 pathway upregulation.

Ref: Lee et al., Cell Metabolism

RESEARCH PROTOCOL NOTES

Research doses5–10 mg SC in rodent studies; 5–20 mg in human research protocols
Available formatsVial (20–60mg), Pen (Mito Boost 60mg - Peptide Pen), Pen (MOTS-C 32mg - BodyPharm)
Stack contextComponent of Shredded stack (with AOD-9604, Tesamorelin)

Chemical Identity

Molecular FormulaC101H180N34O30S
Molecular Weight2174.8 g/mol
CAS Number1448695-81-5
Half-Life (t½)~2–4 hours (plasma); mitochondrial residence longer
SolubilitySoluble in water

Sequence

Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg

Storage & Stability

Lyophilised: -20°C. Reconstituted: 2–8°C, 14–21 days. Relatively fragile - handle gently, avoid vortexing.

Regulatory Status

Research compound. No regulatory approval. Not currently WADA prohibited. SAHPRA: unscheduled.

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