MOTS-c — Vendor Pricing & Purity Guide
Research Overview
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-C) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) consisting of 16 amino acids. Discovered in 2015 by Dr. Changhan David Lee at the University of Southern California, it is encoded within the mitochondrial genome — making it one of only a few known peptides produced by mitochondrial DNA rather than nuclear DNA.
MOTS-c functions as a mitochondrial signal that regulates metabolic homeostasis throughout the body. It activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), the cell's master energy sensor, which triggers a cascade of metabolic effects: increased glucose uptake, enhanced fatty acid oxidation, improved insulin sensitivity, and inhibition of the folate-methionine cycle. MOTS-c has been called an "exercise mimetic" because it activates many of the same metabolic pathways as physical exercise.
MOTS-c levels decline with age and are lower in individuals with metabolic syndrome and obesity. This decline correlates with the age-related deterioration of mitochondrial function and metabolic health. Restoring MOTS-c levels in aged mice reversed age-related metabolic dysfunction, positioning it as a promising target in longevity and metabolic disease research.
Key Research Findings
- •Activated AMPK and improved glucose metabolism in diet-induced obese mice, preventing insulin resistance (Lee et al., Cell Metabolism 2015)
- •Translocated to the nucleus under metabolic stress, directly regulating gene expression — a novel mechanism for a mitochondrial peptide
- •Improved physical performance and endurance capacity in aged mice, functioning as an 'exercise mimetic'
- •Levels decline with age in both mice and humans, correlating with metabolic dysfunction
- •Reversed age-related insulin resistance when administered to aged mice
- •Encoded by mitochondrial DNA — one of only a handful of known mitochondrial-derived peptide hormones
Research Dosage Protocols
MOTS-c is supplied as lyophilized powder reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. In published research, it has been administered via intraperitoneal injection in rodent models.
Research doses in mouse studies range from 5-15 mg/kg body weight, typically administered daily or every other day. The peptide has been studied in both acute (single dose) and chronic (multiple weeks) protocols.
MOTS-c is a relatively new research peptide with limited human data. It is frequently studied alongside other mitochondrial-derived peptides and longevity compounds such as NAD+ and Epitalon.
For research reference only. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption.
Price Comparison (22 products from 16 vendors)
| Vendor | Price | Stock |
|---|---|---|
| Paradigm Peptides | $35.00 $3.50/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Peptide Crafters | $55.00 $3.67/mg 15mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Pure Rawz | $74.00 $3.70/mg 20mg vial | In Stock |
| Peptide Crafters | $40.00 $4.00/mg 10mg lyophilized | Out |
| Particle Peptides | $42.99 $4.30/mg 10mg lyophilized | Out |
| Simple Peptide | $43.00 $4.30/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Astro Peptides | $50.00 $5.00/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Polaris Peptides | $55.00 $5.50/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Peptide Partners | $252.00 $6.30/mg 40mg | In Stock |
| Swiss Chems | $69.95 $7.00/mg 10mg vial | In Stock |
| Peptide Partners | $91.00 $9.10/mg 10mg | In Stock |
| Biotech Peptides | $99.00 $9.90/mg 10mg vial | In Stock |
| BioLongevity Labs | $109.97 $11.00/mg 10mg vial | In Stock |
| Peptide Sciences | $110.00 $11.00/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Core Peptides | $116.00 $11.60/mg 10mg vial | In Stock |
| Peptide Sciences | $65.00 $13.00/mg 5mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Astro Peptides | $320.00 $32.00/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Triumphant Labs | $365.00 $36.50/mg 10mg | In Stock |
| Astro Peptides | $504.00 $50.40/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Soma Chems | $54.99 vial | In Stock |
| Triumphant Labs | $43.00 | In Stock |
| Skye Peptides | $54.00 lyophilized | In Stock |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA that regulates metabolic homeostasis. It activates AMPK (like exercise does), improves insulin sensitivity, and declines with age. It was discovered in 2015 at USC.
Is MOTS-c an exercise mimetic?
MOTS-c activates many of the same metabolic pathways as exercise, including AMPK activation and enhanced glucose uptake. In aged mice, it improved physical performance and endurance. However, it likely does not replicate all benefits of exercise.
Where can I buy MOTS-c for research?
MOTS-c is available from research peptide vendors. Compare pricing in the table above.