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What Is MOTS-C Peptide?

MOTS-C (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-C) is a small bioactive peptide encoded by the mitochondrial genome. Unlike most peptides, which are encoded by nuclear DNA, MOTS-C is unique because it originates from mitochondrial DNA, highlighting the emerging role of mitochondria in cellular signaling beyond energy production.

MOTS-C is made up of 16 amino acids and is important for controlling metabolism. It helps cells maintain balance, especially during stress, by influencing how the body processes glucose, its sensitivity to insulin, and the function of mitochondria. This peptide has gained attention for its potential therapeutic applications in aging, metabolic disorders, and age-related diseases.

Peptide Sequence (IUPAC Condensed): Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg

Molecular Formula: C101H152N28O22S2

Molecular Weight: 2174.64 f/mol

Mots-c Structure
Source: PubChem
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How Does MOTS-C Peptide Work?

MOTS-C mainly affects how the body handles metabolism, controlling glucose levels, improving insulin sensitivity, and helping the body manage stress. It encourages cells to take in more glucose by activating AMPK, which means energy is used efficiently during times of metabolic demand, like fasting or exercise.

By blocking the folate cycle, MOTS-C directs resources towards glycolysis, allowing energy to be produced even when mitochondria aren’t working optimally. It also makes the body more responsive to insulin, showing promise for treating type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

As a peptide that responds to stress, it boosts mitochondrial function and helps create new mitochondria. Furthermore, it supports healthy aging by reducing inflammation and slowing mitochondrial damage. This offers exciting possibilities for treating metabolic and age-related diseases.

 

Research on MOTS-C Peptide?

Improved Metabolic Homeostasis & Insulin Sensitivity:Research shows that MOTS-c plays a key role in improving metabolic homeostasis and insulin sensitivity. Studies have demonstrated that it activates the AMPK pathway, upregulating GLUT4 in skeletal muscle and enhancing glucose uptake [1]. In an experiment in high-fat diet-fed mice, MOTS-c reduced body weight, food intake, and blood glucose levels while significantly improving systemic insulin sensitivity [2].

It also reduces lipid accumulation, such as ceramides, linked to insulin resistance. MOTS-c regulates stress adaptation-related genes via retrograde signaling to the nucleus, influencing energy metabolism, inflammation, and aging-related pathologies [3]. These findings highlight its potential for managing metabolic disorders like diabetes, obesity, and age-related insulin resistance.

Regulation of Adipose Tissue, Thermogenesis and Fat Metabolism: Research shows that MOTS-c enhances adipose tissue regulation, thermogenesis, and fat metabolism by promoting the “browning” of white adipose tissue and activating brown adipose tissue (BAT). A study in mice highlighted that MOTS-c reduced lipid droplet size, improved triglyceride profiles, and maintained higher body temperatures during cold exposure.

These effects, mediated by the ERK signaling pathway, upregulate thermogenic gene expression, highlighting MOTS-c’s potential as a therapeutic strategy to improve lipid metabolism and enhance cold adaptation under stress conditions [4].

Enhanced Exercise Capacity, Muscle Function, Physical Performance: Research suggests that MOTS-c enhances exercise capacity, muscle function, and physical performance across various ages. A study in mice showed that MOTS-c improved physical performance, regulated skeletal muscle metabolism, and enhanced adaptation to metabolic stress [2].

Studies have also shown that exercise induces endogenous MOTS-c expression in humans, linking it to improved metabolic fitness [1]. In rats, combining MOTS-c with exercise significantly enhanced myocardial mechanical efficiency and systolic function compared to exercise alone [5]. These findings highlight MOTS-c’s potential to boost physical performance, promote healthy aging, and optimize cardiovascular and muscular adaptations to exercise.

Cardiovascular & Cardioprotective Effects: Studies show that MOTS-c possesses strong cardioprotective properties. This is because it can help combat oxidative stress and inflamation whilst controlling overall energy too. Research in heart failure mouse model has demonstrated that MOTS-c can inhibit the inflammation, promote antioxidant capacity and activate AMPK pathway to prevent cardiac dysfunction and remodeling [6].

The peptide improves mitochondrial respiration, ameliorate cardiac hypertrophy and glucose homeostasis in diabetic rats [7]. Furthermore, evidence supports that combined treatment of MOTS-c with exercise enhanced myocardial mechanical efficiency, systolic function and cardiac structure [5]. These results underscore the peptide’s potential for correcting heart failure, diabetic cardiomyopathy and maintaining cardiovascular vitality.

Anti-Oxidative, Anti-Inflammatory, Stress Adaptation, and Aging-Related Functions: Research shows that MOTS-c is induced by stress and translocates to the nucleus to regulate stress adaptation genes. It reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS), promotes mitochondrial biogenesis, fusion, and mitophagy, and alleviates mitochondrial dysfunction [1]. MOTS-c suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β) in models of sepsis, lung injury, and inflammatory pain. Additionally, late-life intermittent MOTS-c treatment in mice improved physical capacity and healthspan, highlighting its potential in promoting stress resilience and healthy aging [2].

Potential Benefits for Neuroprotection, Cognition, and Beyond: Studies suggest that MOTS-c may help protect the brain and support metabolism. In Alzheimer’s models, it improved memory, reduced brain inflammation, and lowered harmful immune responses in the hippocampus [8].

It also helps regulate pancreatic cells by lowering insulin release, improving insulin sensitivity, increasing glucagon production, and protecting insulin-producing cells from damage [9]. These effects suggest MOTS-c could protect against brain diseases, boost memory, and support healthy metabolism, especially in aging-related conditions.

Buy MOTS-C Pre-Mixed Peptide Pen from Peptide Works. The 10 mg cartridge is available individually or as part of a full kit that includes a reusable pen, needle tips, and a compact carry case designed for ease and precision.

 

References

[1] W Wan, L Zhang, Y Lin, et al (2023) Mitochondria-derived peptide MOTS-c: effects and mechanisms related to stress, metabolism and aging – Journal of Translational Medicine, 2023 Jan 20, Volume 21 (Issue 1), Page 36.

[2] J C Reynolds, R W Lai, J S T Woodhead, et al (2021) MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline and muscle homeostasis – Nature Communications, 2021 Jan 20, Volume 12, Page 470. 

[3] Y Zheng, Z Wei, and T Wang (2023) MOTS-c: A promising mitochondrial-derived peptide for therapeutic exploitation – Frontiers in Endocrinology (Lausanne), 2023 Jan 25, Volume 14, Page 1120533.

[4] H Lu, S Tang, C Xue, et al (2019) Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide MOTS-c Increases Adipose Thermogenic Activation to Promote Cold Adaptation – Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, Volume 20 (Issue 10), Page 2456.

[5] J Yuan, M Wang, Y Pan, et al (2021) The mitochondrial signaling peptide MOTS-c improves myocardial performance during exercise training in rats – Scientific Reports, 2021 Oct 11, Volume 11, Page 20077.

[6] P Zhong, J Peng, Y Hu, et al (2022) Mitochondrial derived peptide MOTS-c prevents the development of heart failure under pressure overload conditions in mice – Journal of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, 2022 Nov, Volume 26 (Issue 21), Pages 5369-5378.

[7] T Pham, A Taberner, A Hickey, and J-C Han (2025) Mitochondria-derived peptide MOTS-c restores mitochondrial respiration in type 2 diabetic heart – Frontiers in Physiology, 2025 Jun 30, Volume 16, Page 1602271.

[8] Z Mohtashami, M K. Singh, N Salimiaghdam, et al (2022) MOTS-c, the Most Recent Mitochondrial Derived Peptide in Human Aging and Age-Related Diseases – Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, Volume 23 (Issue 19), Page 11991.

[9] J BieĹ„, E PruszyĹ„ska-OszmaĹ‚ek, P KoĹ‚odziejski, et al (2024) MOTS-c regulates pancreatic alpha and beta cell functions in vitro – Histochemistry and Cell Biology, 2024 Jun, Volume 161 (Issue 6), Pages 449-460.

 

MOTS-C Peptide FAQ's

The answers to the most frequently asked questions about MOTS-C.

MOTS-C FAQs
Buy MOTS-C Peptide Nasal Spray from Peptide Works. Supplied in 15 ml and 30 ml glass spray bottles, this non-invasive administration route offers a simple and effective method for consistent application.
 
 
What are the Benefits of MOTS-C?

MOTS-C helps regulate energy balance and supports healthy metabolism. Research shows it activates AMPK pathways, improves insulin sensitivity and enhances exercise performance. It may also reduce fat gain and support mitochondrial function. Studies link MOTS-C with better muscle strength, endurance, and metabolic flexibility, suggesting it plays an important role in maintaining energy and overall metabolic health.

How Soon Do Effects Appear with MOTS-C?

MOTS-C may begin affecting metabolism and energy use within days in experimental studies. Research in animals shows improved insulin sensitivity and endurance after short-term use, often within one to two weeks. These effects relate to its role in activating AMPK pathways, which help regulate energy balance and support better physical performance over time.

Does MOTS-C help with Diabetes?

MOTS-C helps the body manage energy and blood sugar more effectively. Studies show it activates AMPK pathways that improve insulin sensitivity and glucose use. It may also protect against insulin resistance linked to diet or aging. Research suggests MOTS-C supports healthy metabolism and may help control blood sugar levels, making it a promising focus for diabetes-related studies.

Is it legal to buy MOTS-C?

MOTS-C is not approved by the FDA for medical use in the United States, but it can be legally purchased for research purposes. It is available through licensed research suppliers and is not for human use. Regulations may differ by country so buyers should verify local laws and ensure they purchase from authorized sources.

Additional Reading
MOTS-C Peptide Promote Fat Loss

Can MOTS-C Peptide Promote Fat Loss?

This blog explores the potential of the MOTS-C peptide in supporting fat loss and metabolic health. It explains how MOTS-C helps regulate energy, promote fat oxidation, and improve insulin sensitivity through its action on mitochondrial pathways. The article also compares it with other peptides, such as AOD-9604 and Tesamorelin, to highlight its distinct role in advancing fat metabolism research.

Regulating Blood Sugar Levels with Mots-C

Regulating Blood Sugar Levels with Mots-C

This blog explores the role of mitochondrial peptides MOTS-c, AOD-9604, and Humanin in regulating blood sugar and improving insulin sensitivity. It explains how these peptides work through mechanisms such as activating AMPK, enhancing fat metabolism and protecting pancreatic β-cells. The article also highlights their potential to mimic the effects of exercise, reduce inflammation, and help prevent diabetes-related complications in research studies.

Humanin Peptide for Age Related Diseases

Can Humanin Peptide Help Fight Age Related Diseases?

This blog explores the potential of Humanin peptide in combating age-related diseases. It highlights its role in reducing oxidative stress, boosting antioxidant defenses and protecting against conditions like Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular issues and diabetes. Backed by research, Humanin peptide shows promise in preserving cellular health, enhancing memory and supporting mitochondrial function during aging.

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