Last reviewed: October 2026 · Cleared Peptides research team
MOTS-c (mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA type-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome. Described by Lee and colleagues in 2015, it belongs to the small family of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) that also includes humanin.
In this guide:
MOTS-c Sequence and Identifiers
| Name | MOTS-c |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 1627580-64-6 |
| PubChem CID | 146675088 |
| Molecular formula | C101H152N28O22S2 |
| Molecular weight | ≈2174.6 g/mol |
| Sequence | Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg (MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR) |
| Length | 16 amino acids |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
A Peptide Encoded by Mitochondrial DNA
Most cellular proteins are encoded in the nucleus. MOTS-c is unusual because its short open reading frame lies inside the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene. Its discovery helped establish the idea that mitochondria can produce signaling peptides, and it is frequently compared with humanin, encoded within the 16S rRNA region.
Published In-Vitro Research Areas
- AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling in cultured cells
- Folate–methionine cycle metabolites and AICAR accumulation (compare AICAR)
- Stress-induced nuclear translocation and gene-expression regulation
- Comparative mitochondrial-function assays alongside SS-31
This summary describes laboratory research only and makes no claim about effects in humans or animals.
Research formats: MOTS-c and the MOTS-c + SS-31 research set. Lot COAs are on our COA page.
Research materials referenced in this guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c is a 16-residue peptide encoded in the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene (CAS 1627580-64-6), studied in cellular metabolism research.
What is the MOTS-c sequence?
MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR (Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg).
Is MOTS-c for human use?
No. It is supplied for laboratory research use only.
Selected References
Peer-reviewed literature on the compounds discussed in this guide, listed as scientific background for laboratory researchers. Citation does not imply endorsement by the authors or any use other than in-vitro research.
- Merry TL, et al. Mitochondrial-derived peptides in energy metabolism. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2020;319(4):E659-E666. PubMed 32776825 · DOI
- Woodhead JST, et al. Mitochondrial-derived peptides and exercise. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj. 2021;1865(12):130011. PubMed 34520826 · DOI
Laboratory note: solubility depends on salt form and solvent. This guide does not state a single solubility figure. Handling of lyophilized material is described in the peptide storage guide.
Research Use Only Notice
This guide is provided for educational and laboratory reference purposes. It summarizes published, primarily in-vitro and structural research literature and does not describe, recommend or imply any use in humans or animals. Products sold by Cleared Peptides are for laboratory research use only; they are not drugs, foods, cosmetics or dietary supplements, are not FDA-approved, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. No dosing, administration or therapeutic information is provided.
