Buy MOTS-c Peptide for Research – The Mitochondrial-Derived Metabolic Regulator, 99% Purity

The mitochondrial peptide that’s reshaping metabolic research.

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) isn’t just another research peptide—it represents a fundamental shift in our understanding of how mitochondria communicate with the rest of the cell . Discovered in 2015 by researchers at the University of Southern California, this 16-amino acid peptide is encoded not in the nuclear genome, but within the mitochondrial DNA itself .

What makes MOTS-c unique is its role as a retrograde signal—a messenger from the mitochondria to the nucleus that helps coordinate cellular adaptation to metabolic stress . Under resting conditions, MOTS-c is primarily distributed in the mitochondria. But when metabolic stress occurs—such as glucose deprivation or oxidative stress—MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus in an AMPK-dependent manner, where it binds to transcription factors and regulates nuclear gene expression to promote cellular balance and stress resistance. Buy MOTS-c Peptide for Research

When you choose to buy MOTS-c peptide for research, you’re acquiring a tool that has demonstrated remarkable effects across multiple research domains. Studies have shown that MOTS-c treatment in mice prevents age-dependent and high-fat-diet-induced insulin resistance, as well as diet-induced obesity . Human studies have revealed that exercise increases MOTS-c levels in skeletal muscle and blood circulation, indicating that MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide induced by physical activity. Buy MOTS-c Peptide for Research

At Pinecrest, our MOTS-c:

• Tests at ≥99% purity (HPLC verified)

• CAS Number: 1627580-64-6

• Molecular Formula: C₁₀₁H₁₅₂N₂₈O₂₂S₂ · C₂HF₃O₂ (TFA salt)

• Molecular Weight: 2174.6 Da (peptide) + 114.0 (TFA)

• Sequence: H-Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg-OH

• Delivered as lyophilized white powder

• Available in standard research quantities

• Includes batch-specific Certificate of Analysis

• Ships from our China facility to your USA door in 5–7 days

• Backed by our 100% purity guarantee

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WHAT IS MOTS-c?

MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded by a short open reading frame (sORF) within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene . It belongs to a novel class of bioactive microproteins that also includes Humanin (HN) and the small humanin-like peptides (SHLP1-6). Buy MOTS-c Peptide for Research

Molecular Identity

Discovery and Significance

MOTS-c was first identified in 2015 through an in silico search for potential sORFs within the human mitochondrial genome . The peptide is encoded by 51 base pairs within the 12S rRNA region and contains a strong Kozak sequence that enables translation .

Remarkably, MOTS-c translation occurs in the cytoplasm using the standard genetic code, as mitochondrial translation (using the mitochondria-specific genetic code) would yield tandem start and stop codons . This indicates that the polyadenylated transcript is exported from the mitochondria—a process that, while still poorly understood, has been documented for various mitochondrial RNAs .

The peptide sequence is highly conserved across 14 species, especially the first 11 residues, suggesting important biological functions preserved through evolution. Buy MOTS-c Peptide for Research

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MECHANISM OF ACTION: HOW MOTS-c WORKS – Buy MOTS-c Peptide for Research

Nuclear Translocation Under Metabolic Stress

Under resting conditions, MOTS-c is mainly distributed in the mitochondria outside the nucleus . However, when metabolic stress occurs—such as serum or glucose deprivation, or oxidative stress—MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus in an AMPK-dependent manner .

This translocation requires hydrophobic groups, suggesting that MOTS-c may need the assistance of other proteins to enter the nucleus—a mechanism that requires further investigation .

Gene Expression Regulation

Once in the nucleus, MOTS-c binds to transcription factors regulated by antioxidant response elements (ARE), particularly NRF2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) . This interaction activates anti-oxidative stress genes, improving cellular stress resistance .

Microarray analyses have shown that MOTS-c treatment produces a clear global gene expression profile shift, with significant alterations in genes associated with cellular metabolism and inflammation .

AMPK Pathway Activation

MOTS-c promotes the biosynthesis of the endogenous AMP analog AICAR, which consequently activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) . This pathway is central to metabolic regulation:

• AMPK activation enhances glucose uptake and improves insulin sensitivity

• The metabolic effects occur through inhibition of the folate cycle and its tethered de novo purine biosynthesis

• This leads to cellular energy sensing and metabolic adaptation

Tissue Distribution and Exercise Response

MOTS-c is detected in various tissues in mice and rats, as well as in human and rodent plasma . Fasting lowers endogenous expression of MOTS-c in metabolically active tissues (skeletal muscle and testes) as well as in plasma, while homeostatic tissues (brain and heart) show sustained levels .

Remarkably, exercise stimulates MOTS-c expression:

• Endogenous MOTS-c levels in skeletal muscle increase approximately 11.9-fold following exercise compared to pre-exercise values

• This elevation can persist for up to 4 hours after exercise

• Circulating MOTS-c levels increase 1.6-fold during exercise and remain elevated 1.5-fold post-exercise

This has led researchers to describe MOTS-c as a “motion simulator” that can mediate the function of the exercise signal system .

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RESEARCH APPLICATIONS

Metabolic Disease Research – Buy MOTS-c Peptide for Research

MOTS-c has demonstrated remarkable effects on metabolism, making it a valuable tool for studying:

Insulin Sensitivity and Glucose Metabolism:

• MOTS-c enhances insulin sensitivity throughout the body, particularly in skeletal muscle

• It promotes glucose entry into cells through the AMPK pathway, participating in glycolysis

• Treatment with MOTS-c in mice prevented age-dependent and high-fat-diet-induced insulin resistance

Obesity Research:

• MOTS-c treatment inhibits weight gain caused by high-fat diets

• It reduces diet-induced obesity in animal models

• Plasma MOTS-c levels in men are negatively correlated with fasting insulin levels, glycosylated hemoglobin, and body mass index

Aging and Longevity Research

MOTS-c levels decline with age, making it a focus of aging research:

• MOTS-c levels in skeletal muscle and blood circulation decrease with age in both humans and mice

• Blood MOTS-c levels in young people are 11% higher than in middle-aged and 21% higher than in older individuals

• MOTS-c gene polymorphisms have been found associated with human lifespan

• The peptide activates anti-oxidative stress genes through NRF2, improving mitochondrial protective gene expression

Cardiovascular Research

Recent studies have revealed protective effects of MOTS-c against cardiac dysfunction:

• MOTS-c prevents the development of heart failure via activation of the AMPK pathway

• It improves heart structure and function, protecting cardiovascular health

• MOTS-c may improve heart failure in patients with diabetes through the NRG1-ErbB4 pathway

• It promotes angiogenesis, reduces inflammation, and decreases apoptosis in cardiac tissue

Cancer Research

Emerging research has identified MOTS-c’s role in cancer biology:

Ovarian Cancer: A 2024 study published in Advanced Science revealed that MOTS-c levels are reduced in both serum and tumor tissues from ovarian cancer patients, and lower levels are associated with poor prognosis .

Mechanism: Exogenous MOTS-c inhibits cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis . MOTS-c interacts with LARS1 and promotes its ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation by competing with USP7 for binding .

In vivo: MOTS-c displays marked anti-tumor effects on ovarian cancer growth without systemic toxicity .

Colorectal Cancer: Earlier research suggested MOTS-c could suppress the growth of colorectal cancer cells, indicating potential as a therapeutic agent .

Inflammation Research

MOTS-c exhibits anti-inflammatory properties:

• It reduces the level of pro-inflammatory factors in mice

• Increases anti-inflammatory factors

• Activates NF-κB signaling in ways that may protect against inflammation-induced dysfunction

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PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Available Sizes:

• 1 mg vial

• 5 mg vial

• 10 mg vial

• 25 mg vial

• 50 mg vial

• Bulk quantities available upon request

Our advantage: We exceed industry standards on purity and provide comprehensive third-party analytical data with every batch. While many suppliers offer 95-97% purity , our MOTS-c is ≥99% with full documentation.

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ANALYTICAL TESTING: PROVEN BY DATA

Every batch of our MOTS-c undergoes rigorous quality control testing following industry best practices:

1. Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC)

• Quantifies purity with precision

• Visual chromatogram provided

• Identifies and quantifies individual impurities

• Our standard: ≥99.0%

2. Mass Spectrometry (MS)

• Confirms exact molecular weight (~2174.6 Da)

• Verifies sequence integrity

• Ensures correct structural identity

3. Amino Acid Analysis

• Confirms correct amino acid composition

• Validates sequence fidelity

• Ensures batch-to-batch consistency

4. Endotoxin Testing

• Ensures ≤0.05 EU/mg

• Safe for research applications

• Verified by validated methods

5. Peptide Content Determination

• Quantifies net peptide content

• Accounts for counterions and moisture

• Ensures accurate experimental dosing

6. Stability Testing

• Accelerated studies monitor degradation

• Ensures product integrity during storage

• Confirms handling guidance

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STABILITY AND HANDLING

Storage Requirements

Critical handling notes:

• Store desiccated below -18°C for long-term stability

• Protect from light and moisture

• Allow vial to reach room temperature before opening to minimize condensation

• For long-term storage after reconstitution, add a carrier protein (0.1% HSA or BSA)

• Prevent freeze-thaw cycles

Reconstitution Guidelines

For research purposes, MOTS-c should be reconstituted in sterile 18MΩ-cm H₂O at not less than 100 µg/ml, which can then be further diluted into other aqueous solutions. Buy MOTS-c Peptide for Research

For a 5 mg vial:

• Add 1-2 mL sterile water = 2.5-5 mg/mL concentration

Recommended protocol:

1. Centrifuge vial briefly to ensure powder is at bottom

2. Reconstitute with sterile water or appropriate buffer

3. Gently swirl—do not vortex (peptides are fragile)

4. Prepare sterile aliquots to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles

5. For extended studies, store aliquots at -20°C to -80°C with carrier protein

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MOTS-c VS. OTHER MITOCHONDRIAL-DERIVED PEPTIDES

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RECENT RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS (2024-2026)

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SAFETY AND REGULATORY STATUS

Current Regulatory Status

MOTS-c is a research-grade peptide intended for laboratory research use only. It is:

• Not FDA-approved for any therapeutic indication

• Not for human consumption

• Not for diagnostic or therapeutic use

• Not for veterinary use

• For in vitro research and analytical applications only

Safety Profile from Research Studies

Preclinical studies have demonstrated that MOTS-c displays anti-tumor effects without systemic toxicity in vivo . The peptide has been studied extensively in animal models with favorable safety profiles at research doses.

Important Considerations for Researchers

• Stability: Lyophilized MOTS-c is stable at room temperature for 3 weeks but should be stored desiccated below -18°C for long-term storage

• Solubility: Reconstitute in sterile 18MΩ-cm H₂O at ≥100 µg/ml

• Handling: Prevent freeze-thaw cycles; for long-term storage of reconstituted peptide, add carrier protein (0.1% HSA or BSA)

• Quality matters: Purity and analytical verification are essential for reproducible research

Research Use Only

Our MOTS-c is sold for laboratory research purposes only. It is:

• Not for human consumption

• Not for diagnostic or therapeutic use

• Not FDA-approved for any indication

• Intended for in vitro studies and analytical applications

• For qualified researchers only

• Requires age verification (21+) for purchase

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ORDERING INFORMATION

Each order includes:

• Batch-specific Certificate of Analysis

• HPLC chromatogram (upon request)

• Mass spectrometry confirmation (upon request)

• Lot number for full traceability

• Vacuum-sealed, desiccated packaging

• Temperature-stable international shipping

Shipping to USA: 5–7 business days (typical)

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MOTS-c FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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Q: What does MOTS-c stand for?

A: MOTS-c stands for Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA type-c . It’s a 16-amino acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome.

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Q: What is the CAS number for MOTS-c?

A: The CAS number is 1627580-64-6 .

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Q: What is the molecular weight of MOTS-c?

A: The molecular weight is approximately 2174.6 Da for the peptide portion, plus 114.0 for the TFA counterion .

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Q: What is the amino acid sequence of MOTS-c?

A: The sequence is H-Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg-OH .

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Q: What purity should I expect for research-grade MOTS-c?

A: Research-grade MOTS-c typically ranges from ≥95-97% purity by HPLC analysis . Pinecrest’s MOTS-c is ≥99% with full documentation, including third-party testing.

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Q: How should MOTS-c be stored?

A: Lyophilized MOTS-c should be stored desiccated below -18°C for long-term stability . It is stable at room temperature for up to 3 weeks but should be kept away from heat, light, and moisture . Once reconstituted, store at 4°C for 2-7 days or below -18°C with carrier protein for longer storage .

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Q: What are the main research applications for MOTS-c?

A: MOTS-c is primarily studied for metabolic regulation (insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, obesity), aging and longevity, cardiovascular protection, inflammation, and emerging cancer research (ovarian, colorectal) .

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Q: Is MOTS-c FDA-approved?

A: No. MOTS-c is a research peptide for laboratory use only. It is not FDA-approved for any therapeutic indication .

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Q: Does exercise affect MOTS-c levels?

A: Yes. Exercise dramatically increases MOTS-c expression. Endogenous MOTS-c levels in skeletal muscle increase approximately 11.9-fold following exercise, with elevations persisting for up to 4 hours .

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Q: How does MOTS-c enter the nucleus?

A: Under metabolic stress (glucose deprivation, oxidative stress), MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus in an AMPK-dependent manner. The translocation requires hydrophobic groups, suggesting it may need helper proteins—a mechanism requiring further study .

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Q: What is the relationship between MOTS-c and aging?

A: MOTS-c levels decline with age in both humans and rodents. Blood MOTS-c levels in young people are 11% higher than in middle-aged and 21% higher than in older individuals . Higher MOTS-c levels are associated with better metabolic health and potentially delayed aging .

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SUMMARY OF MOTS-c RESEARCH APPLICATIONS

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WHAT RESEARCHERS SAY

Dr. Alan Richards – Richards Research Institute, Boston

“Our lab studies mitochondrial communication in metabolic disease. MOTS-c’s unique role as a retrograde signal from mitochondria to nucleus makes it an invaluable tool. Pinecrest’s product has been consistently pure with excellent documentation across multiple orders.”

Kevin O’Brien – O’Brien Distributing, Chicago

*”Following the 2024 ovarian cancer study in Advanced Science, interest in MOTS-c has surged across multiple research domains—from metabolism to oncology. Researchers need material they can trust, with verified purity and proper handling documentation. Pinecrest delivers that.”*

Dr. Susan Walters – Walters Clinical Research, Cleveland

“The distinction between MOTS-c and other mitochondrial peptides is critical for our work on metabolic stress responses. Having access to well-documented, high-purity MOTS-c with full analytical characterization—including HPLC and MS confirmation—is essential for reproducible results.”

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READY TO BUY MOTS-c PEPTIDE FOR RESEARCH?

Questions about MOTS-c for your research? Email us.

sales@pinecrestpeptides.com
Response time: Within 4 hours

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BUY MOTS-c PEPTIDE FOR RESEARCH TODAY

The mitochondrial-derived peptide revolutionizing metabolic research. ≥99% pure. CAS 1627580-64-6. Manufacturer-direct. Ready to ship to USA labs.