MOTS-c
Proper Handling
- Reconstitute with Bacteriostatic Water
- Specifications: Lyophilized powder in 3 mL vial. Purity (>99%) meets or exceeds U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) regulations.
- Storage: In lyophilized form, the peptide is stable for 3 years. Protect from light. Refrigerate and use within 4-6 weeks after opening or reconstituting.
Questions?
Schedule a consultation with a practitioner specialized in peptide therapy, who will determine the best plan for you.
MOTS-c is a 16 amino acid peptide that is coded by the mitochondrial genome. The mitochondria are the “power generators” in cells that convert chemical energy from food into a form that cells can use. According to research, mitochondrial-derived peptides such as MOTS-c have a role in maintaining mitochondrial function and protecting cells under different stresses. It has been shown that exercise causes MOTS-c levels to go up.
MOTS-c peptide may help reduce insulin resistance, prevent obesity, improve muscle function, promote bone metabolism, enhance immune regulation, and postpone aging.
Science-Backed Research
- Promotes fatty acid metabolism in the liver
- Promotes metabolic flexibility and homeostasis
- Helps regulate mitochondrial energy
- Protects against age and diet dependent insulin resistance and obesity
- Promotes resistance to metabolic stress
- Improves exercise capacity
- Helps prevent osteoporosis
- Improves glucose regulation
- Promotes cell differentiation to form osteoblasts
CAS Number 1627580-64-6
PubChem CID 146675088
Molecular Weight 2174.6 g/mol
Molecular Formula C101H152N28O22S2
Synonyms EX-A6267, HY-P2048, CS-0107608
This product is sold as a pure compound for research purposes only, unless prescribed by a licensed physician. This product comes in the form of lyophilized powder and must be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water prior to use. Please refer to our terms and conditions prior to purchase.
Safety Information: Keep this product out of the reach of children. This material has limited research available about it and may result in adverse effects if improperly handled or consumed. This product is not a dietary supplement, but a pure substance, sold as a raw material. We attest exclusively to the quality, purity and description of the materials we provide. This product is for use and handling only by persons with the knowledge and equipment to safely handle this material. You agree to indemnify us for any adverse effects that may arise from improper handling and/or consumption of this product.
The articles and information on products that may be found on this website are provided exclusively for the purposes of providing information and education. These items are not pharmaceuticals or medications, and the Food and Drug Administration has not given permission for the treatment or prevention of any disease, medical condition, or ailment using them.
- Lee C, Kim KH, Cohen P. MOTS-c: A novel mitochondrial-derived peptide regulating muscle and fat metabolism. Free Radic Biol Med. 2016 Nov;100:182-187. doi: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2016.05.015. Epub 2016 May 20. PMID: 27216708; PMCID: PMC5116416. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5116416/
- Zahra Mohtashami et al, MOTS-c, The Most Recent Mitochondrial Derived Peptide in Human Aging and Age-Related Diseases, International Journal of Molecular Sciences
- Lee C, Kim KH, Cohen P. MOTS-c: A novel mitochondrial-derived peptide regulating muscle and fat metabolism. Free Radic Biol Med. 2016 Nov;100:182-187. doi: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2016.05.015. Epub 2016 May 20. PMID: 27216708; PMCID: PMC5116416. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27216708/
- Reynolds JC, Lai RW, Woodhead JST, Joly JH, Mitchell CJ, Cameron-Smith D, Lu R, Cohen P, Graham NA, Benayoun BA, Merry TL, Lee C. MOTS-c is an exercise-induced mitochondrial-encoded regulator of age-dependent physical decline and muscle homeostasis. Nat Commun. 2021 Jan 20;12(1):470. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33473109/
- Lu H, Wei M, Zhai Y, Li Q, Ye Z, Wang L, Luo W, Chen J, Lu Z. MOTS-c peptide regulates adipose homeostasis to prevent ovariectomy-induced metabolic dysfunction. J Mol Med (Berl). 2019 Apr;97(4):473-485. doi: 10.1007/s00109-018-01738-w. Epub 2019 Feb 6. PMID: 30725119. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30725119/
- Kim KH, Son JM, Benayoun BA, Lee C. The Mitochondrial-Encoded Peptide MOTS-c Translocates to the Nucleus to Regulate Nuclear Gene Expression in Response to Metabolic Stress. Cell Metab. 2018 Sep 4;28(3):516-524.e7. doi: 10.1016/j.cmet.2018.06.008. Epub 2018 Jul 5. PMID: 29983246; PMCID: PMC6185997. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6185997/
- Hu BT, Chen WZ. MOTS-c improves osteoporosis by promoting osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells via TGF-β/Smad pathway. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2018 Nov;22(21):7156-7163. doi: 10.26355/eurrev_201811_16247. PMID: 30468456. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30468456/
- Qin Q, Delrio S, Wan J, Jay Widmer R, Cohen P, Lerman LO, Lerman A. Downregulation of circulating MOTS-c levels in patients with coronary endothelial dysfunction. Int J Cardiol. 2018 Mar 1;254:23-27. doi: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2017.12.001. Epub 2017 Dec 6. PMID: 29242099. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29242099/
- Noriyuki Fuku el al., The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c: A player in exceptional longevity?, http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/acel.12389.
- Che N, Qiu W, Wang JK, Sun XX, Xu LX, Liu R, Gu L. MOTS-c improves osteoporosis by promoting the synthesis of type I collagen in osteoblasts via TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2019 Apr;23(8):3183-3189. doi: 10.26355/eurrev_201904_17676. PMID: 31081069. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31081069/
Frequently Asked Questions
MOTS-c
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MOTS-c, a mitochondrial-derived peptide, acts as a systemic hormone and has been implicated in metabolic homeostasis. Although MOTS-c improves insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle, whether MOTS-c impacts muscle atrophy is not known. Myostatin is a negative regulator of skeletal muscle mass and also one of the possible mediators of insulin resistance-induced skeletal muscle wasting.
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When MOTS-c enters the bloodstream and makes its way to cells, it interacts directly with the mitochondria. The mitochondria are responsible for producing energy, and MOTS-c helps them do this more efficiently.
Specifically, MOTS-c helps muscles take up more glucose, or sugar, from the bloodstream. This process not only helps in lowering blood sugar levels but also ensures that muscles have enough energy to function well, especially during physical activity. For insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, this can be particularly beneficial because it can improve how the body responds to insulin.
MOTS-c also encourages cells to burn fat for energy, which can be helpful for weight loss or improving metabolic health.
Beyond its effects on glucose and fat metabolism, MOTS-c has some protective effects on cells. It helps reduce oxidative stress, which is a kind of wear and tear on cells caused by harmful molecules. By reducing this stress, MOTS-c may help slow down some of the processes that contribute to aging and improve overall cellular health.
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Metabolic Regulation
Glucose Homeostasis: MOTS-c plays a crucial role in maintaining glucose levels by enhancing glucose uptake in muscles and improving insulin sensitivity. This makes it potentially beneficial for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.
Fat Metabolism: It promotes the conversion of fat into usable energy, which can aid in weight management and the treatment of metabolic disorders.
Exercise Performance
Enhanced Physical Performance: MOTS-c has been shown to mimic the effects of exercise by activating pathways involved in energy production and muscle adaptation. This can lead to improved endurance and physical performance, making it appealing to athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Muscle Preservation: It helps in preserving muscle mass during periods of metabolic stress, such as fasting or intense physical activity.
Anti-Aging and Longevity
Cellular Protection: MOTS-c has antioxidant properties that protect cells from oxidative stress, a key factor in aging. It also influences mitochondrial function, which is critical for longevity and cellular health.
Inflammation Reduction: It helps reduce chronic inflammation, which is often associated with aging and age-related diseases.
Cognitive Function
Neuroprotective Effects: Emerging research suggests that MOTS-c may have protective effects on the brain, potentially aiding in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases and improving cognitive function.
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Clinical Applications
Metabolic Disorders: MOTS-c can be a valuable addition to treatment protocols for patients with metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Its ability to improve insulin sensitivity and promote fat metabolism makes it a promising therapeutic option.
Anti-Aging Clinics: Given its role in promoting longevity and reducing oxidative stress, MOTS-c can be integrated into anti-aging programs for patients seeking to improve their overall health span.
Sports Medicine: For athletes or individuals seeking to enhance physical performance, MOTS-c offers a unique approach by mimicking the metabolic effects of exercise.
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Cancer
Cellular Growth: Because MOTS-c can influence cellular metabolism and growth, it may not be suitable for individuals with a history of cancer, particularly hormone-sensitive cancers. The concern is that it could potentially promote the growth of certain types of cancer cells. Patients with a history of cancer should consult their healthcare provider before using MOTS-c.
Thyroid Disorders
Metabolic Influence: Since MOTS-c can impact metabolic processes, individuals with thyroid disorders, particularly hyperthyroidism, should use caution. Its effects on metabolism may require careful monitoring in these patients.
Chronic Kidney or Liver Disease
Metabolic Clearance: Patients with significant kidney or liver impairment may have altered clearance of the peptide, which could lead to unexpected effects or toxicity. These individuals should be closely monitored if considering MOTS-c therapy.
Uncontrolled Diabetes
Glucose Regulation: While MOTS-c can help improve insulin sensitivity, individuals with uncontrolled diabetes, particularly those on insulin or other glucose-lowering medications, should use caution. The combination could lead to hypoglycemia, requiring adjustments in medication and close monitoring.
Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure)
Potential Blood Pressure Effects: There is some evidence that MOTS-c could influence blood pressure, and those with hypotension may be at risk for further lowering their blood pressure. Monitoring is advised in these patients.
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MOTS-c is commonly injected subcutaneously, which may cause local redness, irritation, itching and swelling of the injection site. Other side effects that have been reported are:
- Headache
- Fatigue
Remember, everyone reacts differently to medications like MOTS-c due to individual physiological differences such as metabolism rate and overall health status. Tell your doctor if you have any side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or doesn’t go away.
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MOTS-c is an injectable peptide administered subcutaneously through the fat. The most fatty parts of the body are the abdomen, side or back of upper arms, and front of thighs.
There have been use cases in intravenous (IV) administration. While MOTS-c has potential therapeutic benefits, its use in IV therapy should be approached with caution due to limited clinical data.
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We're happy to help answer questions you may have, or refer you to a licensed healthcare professional for medical advice. Email us at care@somapeptides.com or schedule a telehealth appointment.