What it is
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA (12S rRNA region), one of the mitochondrial-derived peptides discovered in the last decade. It acts as a signalling molecule between mitochondria and the nucleus.
Mechanism
Under metabolic stress MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus and regulates genes involved in glucose and fat metabolism, largely through the AMPK pathway and the folate–methionine cycle. In animal models it improves insulin sensitivity and exercise capacity and counteracts diet-induced obesity.
Research areas
- Insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
- Exercise physiology and endurance
- Mitochondrial signalling and ageing
- Obesity and metabolic-syndrome models
- Muscle homeostasis
Safety and metabolism
Endogenous peptide; preclinical work reports good tolerability. Human data are early-stage. Half-life has not been well characterised.
Why this amount
10 mg is the standard research vial for a multi-week series.
