MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA type-c) is a unique 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP). Unlike most conventional peptides encoded by nuclear DNA, MOTS-c originates from the open reading frame within mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene, representing a key signaling molecule that mediates retrograde communication between mitochondria and the cell nucleus. It was first identified in 2015, and since then it has become a high-interest research compound for exploring mitochondrial function and metabolic homeostasis.

The core biological mechanism of MOTS-c centers on the folate-AICAR-AMPK signaling axis. This peptide suppresses the folate metabolic cycle and induces endogenous AICAR production, which activates AMPK, the master energy sensor inside cells. AMPK activation triggers a series of downstream responses, including enhanced cellular glucose uptake, improved insulin sensitivity, promotion of fatty acid oxidation and modulation of systemic energy expenditure. Preclinical research also indicates that MOTS-c participates in regulating inflammatory responses, skeletal muscle adaptation, bone metabolism and stress resistance. Studies show endogenous MOTS-c levels drop with aging, making it widely adopted in research fields such as aging biology, metabolic disorders, obesity and insulin resistance models.

Our MOTS-c is manufactured via Fmoc solid-phase peptide synthesis. After crude peptide synthesis, multiple rounds of reversed-phase HPLC purification are applied to remove truncated fragments, deprotection by-products and residual reagents. Each batch undergoes strict quality control tests including HPLC purity analysis, LC-MS identity confirmation, water content detection and residual solvent inspection. A complete COA document is supplied for every shipment to support laboratory record keeping and experimental repeatability.

The lyophilized powder form greatly enhances molecular stability during transportation and long-term cold storage, effectively slowing down peptide degradation. It can be easily reconstituted with aqueous buffer for in vitro cell assays and in vivo preclinical trials. We maintain stable batch consistency and flexible packaging options for academic labs, biotech R&D teams and pharmaceutical research institutes globally.