What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA — one of a small family of “mitochondrial-derived peptides.”
How does MOTS-c work?
Research indicates it can move to the cell nucleus under stress and influence genes involved in metabolism, partly through the AMPK energy-sensing pathway.
What are researchers studying?
- ●Exercise capacity and muscle metabolism in mice
- ●Cellular stress responses
- ●Age-related metabolic changes
Where does the evidence stand?
Not approved by the FDA. Human research is at an early stage.
Quick facts
- Research area
- Mitochondrial
- Sequence
MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR- Also known as
- MOTSc
- Third-party lab results
- 5 published COAs →
- Tested vendors tracking it
- 2 vendors →
Recent peer-reviewed research
The most relevant MOTS-c studies from the last three years, via PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine).
- Therapeutic Effects of MOTS-c in the Valproic Acid-Induced Autism Model in Rats: Role of Tetrahydrobiopterin and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic FactorMolecular neurobiology · 2026 Feb 18 · PubMed ↗
- Synthetic Peptides in Pharmacy Compounding: Analysis of PCAC Recommendations and Industry Safety StandardsInternational journal of pharmaceutical compounding · 2026 Jul-Aug · PubMed ↗
- Mitochondria-derived peptide MOTS-c and its role in OSA pathogenesis: a potential therapeutic target?Sleep and biological rhythms · 2025 Jul · PubMed ↗
- The Role of Mitokines in Diabetic NephropathyCurrent medicinal chemistry · 2025 · PubMed ↗
- Mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) activated by physical exercise as therapeutic targets for metabolic disorders: A systematic reviewPhysiology international · 2026 Aug 25 · PubMed ↗
Compare MOTS-c
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This guide summarizes published research for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not describe how to use MOTS-c. Citations link to PubMed and are listed for reference — we haven't reviewed or endorsed their findings. Products referenced on The Peptide Audit are sold by third parties for laboratory research use only and are not for human consumption.