MOTS-C

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a natural mitochondrial peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA. It is extensively studied within molecular, metabolic and cellular research because of its interaction with energy regulation and metabolic signaling pathways.

Unlike many other peptides derived from nuclear DNA, MOTS-c has a mitochondrial origin. This makes it particularly relevant for research into cellular energy balance, metabolic adaptation, and mitochondrial function.

Within experimental models, MOTS-c is often used to study AMPK signaling, glucose metabolism, and energy-homeostasis-related pathways.

History of MOTS-c

MOTS-c was identified as part of a new class of peptides encoded by mitochondrial DNA. This discovery has significantly expanded the understanding of mitochondria as active regulators of cellular signaling and metabolism.

Early studies focused on metabolic pathways and energy balance, while later studies expanded to cellular stress response, adaptive signaling, and biochemical regulation mechanisms.

Due to its unique origin and function, MOTS-c has become an important compound in mitochondrial and metabolic research.

MOTS-c Structure and Molecular Data

Peptide Name: MOTS-C
Peptide Type: Mitochondrial-derived peptide
Sequence: 16-amino acid peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA
Molecular Formula: C101H152N28O22
Molecular Weight: ~2174.5 g/mol

MOTS-c consists of a short peptide chain that allows interaction with intracellular signaling pathways, especially those involved in energy sensing and metabolic regulation.

MOTS-c Research Findings

MOTS-c has been extensively investigated in metabolic, cellular and mitochondrial models with a focus on energy management and signaling pathways.

Research shows activity related to:

• AMPK pathway activation and energy regulation
• Glucose metabolism and metabolic signaling
• Mitochondrial function and cellular energy balance
• Stress response and metabolic adaptation mechanisms

Major Research Areas of MOTS-C

Metabolic Research
Focus on energy balance, glucose metabolism and pathway efficiency.

Mitochondrial Research
Analysis of mitochondrial signaling and energy production.

Cellular Research
Study of signaling pathways and metabolic responses.

Systemic Research
Investigating coordinated metabolic dynamics within biological systems.

Scientific Relevance of MOTS-c

MOTS-c is considered an important mitochondrial research peptide for studying energy regulation, metabolic pathways, and mitochondrial signaling networks.

The unique origins of mitochondrial DNA offer insight into how mitochondria contribute to cellular communication, metabolic adaptation, and biological regulation.

Due to its central role in metabolic pathways, MOTS-c remains highly relevant within molecular biology, biochemistry and mitochondrial research.

References

Lee C. et al. (2015). The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c regulates metabolic homeostasis.

Kim KH. et al. (2018). MOTS-c and AMPK pathway activation.

Reynolds JC. et al. (2021). Mitochondrial peptides and metabolic regulation.