What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA type-c) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide discovered in 2015 at the University of Southern California. It is encoded within the mitochondrial genome and has emerged as a significant regulator of metabolism, exercise adaptation, and longevity.
MOTS-c represents a paradigm shift in understanding mitochondrial function, demonstrating that mitochondria communicate with the rest of the cell through peptide signaling.
Discovery
MOTS-c was discovered by Dr. Pinchas Cohen's lab in 2015, along with other mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs). These findings revealed that mitochondrial DNA encodes small signaling peptides, not just components of the electron transport chain.
Molecular Profile
Structure
MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR (16 amino acids)
Molecular Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Amino Acids | 16 |
| Molecular Weight | ~2174 Da |
| Origin | Mitochondrial DNA |
| Gene Location | 12S rRNA gene |
Mechanism of Action
Metabolic Regulation
MOTS-c works through multiple pathways:
- AMPK activation: Central metabolic regulator
- Glucose metabolism: Improves insulin sensitivity
- Fatty acid oxidation: Enhances fat metabolism
- Mitochondrial function: Supports bioenergetics
Exercise Mimetic Effects
MOTS-c has been called an "exercise mimetic":
- Increases during exercise
- Improves metabolic adaptation
- Enhances physical capacity
- Reduces obesity-related pathology
Research Applications
Metabolic Disease
- Insulin resistance
- Type 2 diabetes models
- Obesity research
- Metabolic syndrome
Aging Research
- Longevity effects in models
- Age-related metabolic decline
- Healthspan extension
- Mitochondrial aging
Exercise Science
- Exercise adaptation
- Physical performance
- Recovery enhancement
- Muscle metabolism
Summary
MOTS-c represents a new class of mitochondrial-derived signaling peptides with significant implications for metabolism, exercise, and aging research.
Key Points:
- Classification: Mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP)
- Mechanism: AMPK activation, metabolic regulation
- Research Focus: Metabolism, exercise, aging
- Status: Research compound