MOTS-C is a mitochondria-derived peptide that activates AMPK and regulates metabolic homeostasis. Explore the research on aging, diabetes, and cardiac function.
Jun 16, 2026 | 8 Minute Read
What Is MOTS-C?
MOTS-C stands for Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-C — a name that reveals something remarkable about this peptide: it is encoded not by nuclear DNA like most proteins, but by mitochondrial DNA itself.
First identified and characterized by researchers at the University of Southern California in 2015, MOTS-C represents a new class of signaling molecules called mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs). It is a small peptide composed of 16 amino acids, produced within the mitochondria and released into circulation where it acts as a systemic metabolic signal.
What makes MOTS-C uniquely compelling in research is that it functions as a mitochondrial messenger — a signal from inside the energy-producing organelle to the rest of the body, communicating the status of mitochondrial health and regulating metabolism accordingly.
Naturally occurring MOTS-C levels have been shown to decline with aging, and lower circulating MOTS-C has been associated with insulin resistance, metabolic dysfunction, and conditions of cellular senescence.
CAS Number: 1627580-64-6
Molecular Formula: C₇₄H₁₃₁N₂₃O₂₃S
Molecular Weight: 1860.05 g/mol
⚠️ MOTS-C is not FDA approved for human use. All research discussed is preclinical or early-stage clinical. For Research Use Only.
