What is MOTS-c and how does it relate to mitochondrial signaling?

MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in the mitochondrial genome rather than the nuclear genome. It activates AMPK, a central energy-sensing enzyme. Mouse studies report improved insulin sensitivity, reduced diet-induced obesity, and extended median lifespan, making MOTS-c an active subject of longevity research.

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA type-c) is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome rather than the nuclear genome — a distinctive feature among known peptides. It activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a central energy-sensing enzyme, and the AMPK target TFAM (mitochondrial transcription factor A). Research in mouse models has shown that MOTS-c administration improves insulin sensitivity, reduces high-fat-diet-induced obesity, and extends median lifespan in aged mice. Circulating MOTS-c levels decline with age in humans, making it a subject of longevity research.

Source: Cell Metab (2015) · PubMed

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Summarised from peer-reviewed literature for research reference. For laboratory research use only.