Mots-C

Mots-C Overview

Mots-C is a 16-amino acid mitochondria-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA gene of the mitochondrial genome. It was first identified in 2015 and is considered part of a newly characterized class of mitochondrial peptides called mitochondria-derived peptides (MDPs). In research contexts it is studied for its roles in metabolic regulation, insulin sensitivity, exercise adaptation, and cellular stress response. It has been shown to translocate to the nucleus under metabolic stress conditions and modulate gene expression related to glucose homeostasis.

History

Mots-C was discovered in 2015 by Chang-Yong Lee and colleagues at the University of Southern California. Its discovery was significant as it represented the first peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA shown to have systemic metabolic effects when administered exogenously. Since its discovery, the compound has attracted growing research interest for its apparent effects on metabolic function, physical performance, and aging biology. All research remains in the preclinical stage, and it has not received regulatory approval for human use.

Key Studies

1. Lee C, et al. — Discovery paper (2015) The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance. Cell Metabolism. → https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25738459/
2. Reynolds JC, et al. — Exercise and aging effects (2021) MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline and muscle homeostasis. Nature Communications. → https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34385430/
3. Kim SJ, et al. — Metabolic stress and nuclear translocation (2018) Mitochondrially derived peptides as novel regulators of metabolism. Journal of Physiology. → https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28891235/