Description
MOTSโc is a mitochondriaโderived peptide consisting of 16 amino acids encoded within a short open reading frame of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene. Unlike nuclearโencoded peptides, MOTSโc is translated in the cytoplasm and can shuttle to the nucleus in response to stress or exercise signals. There it modulates transcriptional programmes via the folateโAICARโAMPK pathwayโby inhibiting the folate cycle and de novo purine synthesis, it elevates AICAR levels and activates AMPK, a key energy sensor. Studies in mice show that this signalling improves insulin sensitivity and prevents highโfatโdietโinduced insulin resistance and obesity.
MOTS-c Peptide: Research Overview & Key Findings
Disclaimer: This page summarizes peer-reviewed research for educational purposes only. It makes no claims of therapeutic benefit and is not medical advice.
What Is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c (mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA. Research indicates it translocates to the nucleus under metabolic stress and may participate in mitochondrialโnuclear signaling.
Lee et al., 2015 (PubMed);
Gao et al., 2023 (PMC review).
Key Observational Findings (Non-Therapeutic)
- Metabolic Regulation & Insulin Sensitivity: In animal studies, MOTS-c is associated with AMPK activation, improved insulin sensitivity, and reduced diet-induced obesity.
Lee et al., 2015;
Kim et al., 2019. - Exercise Response & Physical Capacity: MOTS-c levels increase in muscle following exercise; in rodent studies, administration correlated with improved running performance in older mice.
Reynolds et al., 2021;
Hyatt et al., 2022. - Mitochondrial Homeostasis & Aging Cells: MOTS-c exposure in aged human cells was linked to improved mitochondrial function and reduced oxidative markers.
Yu et al., 2021. - Cardiac Stress Models: In animal models of pressure-overload cardiac stress, MOTS-c was observed to reduce inflammation and preserve cardiac function in study settings.
Zhong et al., 2022. - Memory & Neuroinflammation (Experimental Model): In rodent experiments with modified delivery, MOTS-c was linked to reduced neuroinflammation and memory improvements in specific neuro-toxin models.
Wan et al., 2023 (J. Transl. Med.). - Cancer Pain Models: In a bone cancer model in mice, MOTS-c mitigated pain behaviors and bone deterioration via mechanisms involving AMPK and inflammation pathways.
Yang et al., 2024.
Summary Table: Observed Research Themes
| Research Area | Observed Findings (Experimental) |
|---|---|
| Metabolic Regulation | Associations with improved insulin sensitivity and metabolic markers in animal studies |
| Exercise & Physical Performance | Elevated levels post-exercise; links to enhanced endurance in aged mice |
| Mitochondrial & Cellular Homeostasis | Enhanced mitochondrial health in aged cells; reduced oxidative stress |
| Cardiac & Inflammatory Stress | Reduced inflammation and improved function in cardiac stress models |
| Neuroinflammation & Memory | Experimental improvements in memory and reduced neuroinflammation in rodent models |
| Pain & Bone Integrity | Reduction in pain behaviors and bone damage in cancer pain mouse models |
SEO Summary
Target keywords: MOTS-c peptide, mitochondrial-derived peptide, exercise mimetic, metabolism research, insulin sensitivity, aging research, PubMed, animal models.
Meta description: A research-based overview of MOTS-c peptide: its discovery, mechanisms, and laboratory-based findings on metabolism, exercise response, and stress resilience. Includes PubMed references. No medical advice.
References (PubMed / PMC)
Important Disclaimers
- This page presents summaries of preclinical and experimental research only.
- No content here is intended to imply medical efficacy or recommendation.
- Readers should consult qualified professionals for health-related information or concerns.
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