What Is MOTS-c? Mitochondrial Peptide Research Guide
An overview of MOTS-c — a mitochondrial-derived peptide — covering how it is studied in metabolic research, the current evidence base, and its research-use-only status in the UK.
7 min read · Published 2026-06-23
What Is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c (mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA type-c) is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA. It is studied as a signalling molecule that appears to communicate between the mitochondria and the nucleus.
Research use only. This material is supplied for in-vitro laboratory research. It is not a medicine and is not for human or veterinary consumption, administration, or therapeutic use.
How MOTS-c Is Studied to Work
In published research MOTS-c is associated with activation of the AMPK energy-sensing pathway and with influences on glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity and metabolic homeostasis in cell and animal models. It has also been examined in the context of exercise physiology and metabolic adaptation.
Evidence & Regulatory Status
The MOTS-c literature is largely preclinical (cell-culture and rodent models), with limited human data. MOTS-c is not approved as a medicine by the MHRA or any other regulator and is supplied for laboratory research only.
Research Handling & Quality
As a lyophilised (freeze-dried) peptide it is typically stored frozen and reconstituted with bacteriostatic water for in-vitro work — see our reconstitution guide and storage guide. Identity and purity should be verified against a batch-matched Certificate of Analysis (COA) with HPLC and mass-spectrometry data. View mots-c product details and COA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MOTS-c approved in the UK?
No. MOTS-c has no marketing authorisation and is supplied for laboratory research use only, not for human consumption.
What pathway is MOTS-c studied for?
It is most associated with the AMPK metabolic pathway and mitochondrial-to-nuclear signalling in research models.
How is MOTS-c stored?
As a lyophilised peptide it is kept frozen and reconstituted with bacteriostatic water for research. See our storage and reconstitution guides.
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