MOTS-c

Compound Overview

Encoded in the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene, MOTS-c is a 16-amino acid peptide. Laboratory research describes MOTS-c as activating AMPK signaling while regulating cellular metabolism, folate-methionine cycling, and de novo purine biosynthesis. In response to metabolic stress, MOTS-c can translocate to the nucleus and act as a mitochondrial-nuclear retrograde signal.

Research Background & Published Literature

MOTS-c was discovered by Dr. Pinchas Cohen's lab at USC and published in Cell Metabolism (2015). Published research examines this compound as a mitochondrial-encoded hormone, or mitokine, in relation to systemic energy homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, and exercise-responsive metabolic signaling.

Researchers reviewing the literature around this compound can use the peer-reviewed resources below for additional context on mechanism of action, signaling pathways, and controlled laboratory research applications:

• Lee et al. (2015) — Cell Metab
• Kim et al. (2018) — Cell Metab
• Kumagai et al. (2021) — Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab

Storage, Handling & Stability Guidelines

For long-term stability, store lyophilized MOTS-c material at -20°C. After reconstitution with sterile diluent, keep the material refrigerated at 2–8°C and limit freeze-thaw exposure by aliquoting working volumes according to your laboratory's standard operating procedures.

• Keep ambient-temperature handling time as short as practical to support compound integrity.
• Reseal vials promptly after each withdrawal to limit moisture exposure.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment and follow institutional chemical safety protocols at all times.
• For traceability, label aliquots with compound name, concentration, reconstitution date, and operator initials.

Lab Verification

Nexus maintains batch-level verification records for research compounds in the Lab Verified archive, including HPLC purity review and Mass Spectrometry identity confirmation where current lot data is available.