Buy-Mots-C
High-purity MOTS-c is a mitochondria-derived research peptide available for verified academic, institutional, and biotechnology research laboratories. PX1 Research provides USA-manufactured, third-party verified MOTS-c accompanied by lot-specific analytical documentation to ensure reproducible experimental outcomes.
Quick answer
High-purity MOTS-c is a mitochondria-derived research peptide available for verified academic, institutional, and biotechnology research laboratories. PX1 Research provides USA-manufactured, third-party verified MOTS-c accompanied by lot-specific analytical documentation to ensure reproducible experimental outcomes.
Key takeaways
- Researchers seeking to buy [MOTS-c](/research-peptides/mots-c) for laboratory evaluation must select a verified analytical supplier providing lot-specific COAs.
- [MOTS-c](/research-peptides/mots-c) (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome—specifically within the 12S ribosomal RNA (MT-RNR1) region.
- Preclinical investigations highlight [MOTS-c](/research-peptides/mots-c) as a primary regulator of systemic metabolic homeostasis.
- Beyond basal metabolic regulation, [MOTS-c](/research-peptides/mots-c) has been evaluated extensively in animal models examining exercise performance, physical capacity, and age-related metabolic decline.
Sourcing MOTS-c for Laboratory Research
Researchers seeking to buy MOTS-c for laboratory evaluation must select a verified analytical supplier providing lot-specific COAs. PX1 Research supplies USA-manufactured, lyophilized MOTS-c (>99% purity by RP-HPLC/MS) tested for endotoxin levels (<0.01 EU/µg). Every order ships same-day M–F from California and Arizona facilities exclusively for in vitro and preclinical research applications.
When purchasing research peptides for metabolic and cellular assays, batch-to-batch consistency is essential to prevent confounding variable inputs in experimental models. Impurities resulting from incomplete solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) or residual trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) salts can interfere with enzymatic assays, receptor-binding affinity studies, and cell culture viability assays. PX1 Research maintains strict manufacturing oversight within GMP-compliant, ISO 17025-accredited facilities to deliver verified reference standards for the international research community.
Molecular Structure and Mitochondrial Origin of MOTS-c
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome—specifically within the 12S ribosomal RNA (MT-RNR1) region. Unlike classic nuclear-encoded peptides, MOTS-c represents a distinct class of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) that act as retrograde signaling molecules, conveying functional status from the mitochondrion to the nuclear genome.
The primary sequence of MOTS-c is Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg (MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR), with a nominal molecular weight of approximately 2174.6 Da. Preclinical structural analysis reveals an amphipathic structure that enables interaction with both cytosolic enzymatic cascades and nuclear transcriptional machinery under conditions of metabolic stress. In vitro studies demonstrate that upon metabolic perturbation—such as nutrient restriction or oxidative stress—MOTS-c translocates from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, where it binds directly to regulatory elements like the ARE (Antioxidant Response Element) in tandem with transcription factors such as NRF2.
Preclinical Mechanisms: Metabolic Regulation and AMPK Activation
Preclinical investigations highlight MOTS-c as a primary regulator of systemic metabolic homeostasis. The peptide's predominant mechanism of action involves the activation of the 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway. In rodent and cell culture models, MOTS-c administration inhibits the folate cycle, leading to the accumulation of the intermediate 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR). The intracellular accumulation of AICAR subsequently stimulates AMPK phosphorylation without directly altering the cellular AMP/ATP ratio.
Through AMPK activation, MOTS-c modulates downstream targets responsible for glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation, and glycolytic flux. In primary myocyte and adipocyte assays, exposure to MOTS-c increases expression of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) and enhances insulin-stimulated glucose utilization. Researchers utilizing MOTS-c preclinical research models regularly monitor these metabolic cascades to elucidate non-nuclear genomic regulation of energy expenditure.
Exercise-Capacity and Cellular Homeostasis in Preclinical Models
Beyond basal metabolic regulation, MOTS-c has been evaluated extensively in animal models examining exercise performance, physical capacity, and age-related metabolic decline. In vivo rodent trials demonstrate that MOTS-c administration enhances exercise endurance, oxygen consumption capacity, and skeletal muscle adaptation during high-intensity treadmill protocols.
At the tissue level, MOTS-c promotes mitochondrial biogenesis via up-regulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) and TFAM (Mitochondrial Transcription Factor A). In aging rodent models, treatment with MOTS-c prevented diet-induced metabolic dysfunction, hyperinsulinemia, and intramuscular lipid accumulation. These findings suggest that the peptide acts as a molecular mimetic of physical exertion, making it a critical focus area within the PX1 Research Library for studies targeting sarcopenia, metabolic syndrome, and cellular senescence.
Comparative Analysis: Mitochondrial and Metabolic Research Compounds
When designing protocols around cellular energy regulation, investigators often evaluate MOTS-c alongside other mitochondrial and metabolic research targets. The table below highlights key functional distinctions among primary mitochondrial research compounds available to laboratories:
While MOTS-c signals primarily through folate-AICAR-AMPK nuclear retrograde pathways, the cardiolipin-targeted peptide SS-31 operates biophysically within the inner mitochondrial membrane to optimize electron transport chain complex stability and reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS). Conversely, small-molecule inhibitors like 5-Amino-1MQ exert metabolic effects by inhibiting nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), thereby increasing cellular NAD+ pools. Many laboratories elect to buy MOTS-c alongside these distinct compounds to map synergistic or divergent pathways in metabolic research.
Analytical Verification: RP-HPLC, Mass Spectrometry, and Endotoxin Testing
To ensure experimental validity, research peptides must meet rigorous purity criteria. PX1 Research subjects every batch of MOTS-c to dual analytical verification using Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) and Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS). RP-HPLC confirms peptide purity (>99.0%), ensuring the absence of truncated sequences, deletion peptides, or residual protecting groups.
Mass spectrometry validates the exact molecular weight and isotopic distribution of the 16-amino-acid chain, matching the theoretical mass of 2174.6 Da. Furthermore, because cell culture models and primary tissue explants are highly sensitive to bacterial lipopolysaccharides, all lots undergo Chromogenic Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) testing to confirm endotoxin levels remain below 0.01 EU/µg. Detailed Certificates of Analysis (COAs) documenting these analytical metrics are generated for every production lot.
Reconstitution Protocols and Storage Parameters for Laboratory Use
MOTS-c is supplied as a sterile, lyophilized cake or powder to maximize long-term peptide stability. For optimal shelf-life, unopened vials should be stored in a freezer at -20°C or -80°C, protected from light and moisture. Under these conditions, the lyophilized compound retains stability for up to 24 months.
For laboratory reconstitution, researchers should allow the vial to equilibrate to room temperature prior to introducing solvents to prevent condensation. Reconstitution should be performed under a laminar flow hood using sterile bacteriostatic water or sterile deionized water, depending on assay requirements. Gentle swirling is recommended to achieve full dissolution; mechanical vortexing or vigorous agitation should be avoided as it may cause peptide denaturation. Once reconstituted, stock solutions should be aliquoted into single-use polypropylene tubes and stored at -80°C to eliminate damage from repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Evaluating Suppliers: ISO 17025 Validation and Batch Traceability
Navigating the procurement process for research compounds requires strict evaluation of vendor credentials. Research facilities must ensure that suppliers do not rely on unverified self-testing or generic, non-traceable analytical reports. Every batch offered by PX1 Research undergoes testing in an independent, ISO 17025-accredited laboratory located in the United States.
Batch traceability ensures that the specific vial received by a laboratory directly matches the analytical chromatograms and mass spectra published on the lot-specific COA. PX1 Research enforces chain-of-custody protocols from synthesis through final packaging in GMP-compliant facilities, guaranteeing that academic and corporate institutions receive research materials that meet exact purity, sequence identity, and sterile handling standards.
Institutional Procurement and Same-Day Shipping Logistics
PX1 Research streamlines procurement for university departments, contract research organizations (CROs), and private biotechnology facilities. Principal investigators and laboratory managers can set up dedicated Wholesale Lab Accounts for bulk purchasing, standing order fulfillment, and customized batch reservations.
To minimize downtime in active experimental pipelines, orders placed before 3:00 PM EST Monday through Friday ship same-day from centralized fulfillment hubs in California and Arizona. Lyophilized peptides are packaged in temperature-monitored, insulated containers to ensure structural stability during transit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy MOTS-c for verified laboratory research?
You can buy MOTS-c directly from PX1 Research. All batches are manufactured in the USA, strictly intended for in vitro and preclinical research use, and shipped same-day M–F with lot-specific third-party COAs.
What analytical testing verifies the purity when I buy MOTS-c from PX1 Research?
Every lot of MOTS-c undergoes Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) for purity determination (>99%), Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS) for molecular weight verification, and Chromogenic LAL assays for endotoxin quantification.
What is the molecular weight and sequence of MOTS-c?
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide with the sequence MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR and a nominal molecular weight of 2174.6 Da.
How should lyophilized MOTS-c be stored upon arrival?
Lyophilized MOTS-c should be stored at -20°C or -80°C in a dry environment protected from light. Under proper storage conditions, the peptide remains stable for up to two years.
What solvent is recommended for reconstituting MOTS-c in vitro?
Reconstitution is typically performed using sterile bacteriostatic water, sterile water for injection, or assay-compatible buffers under sterile laboratory conditions.
How does MOTS-c differ from SS-31 in preclinical studies?
MOTS-c is a nuclear retrograde signaling peptide that activates the AMPK pathway via folate regulation, whereas SS-31 binds directly to cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane to optimize electron transport chain activity.
What are the endotoxin thresholds for PX1 Research MOTS-c?
All MOTS-c batches supplied by PX1 Research are tested to ensure endotoxin levels remain below 0.01 EU/µg, making them suitable for sensitive cell culture and animal models.
Is MOTS-c approved for human consumption or medical therapy?
No. MOTS-c provided by PX1 Research is strictly designated for laboratory research use only (in vitro and preclinical models). It is not for human or veterinary use, therapy, injection, or clinical administration.
What is the typical shipping timeline when ordering MOTS-c?
Orders placed before 3:00 PM EST Monday through Friday dispatch same-day from distribution centers in California and Arizona via priority delivery services.
How can I access the batch-specific Certificate of Analysis for my order?
Certificates of Analysis (COAs) including HPLC chromatograms and mass spectra are accessible directly on the PX1 Research portal using the lot number printed on your product vial.
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All products are sold strictly for laboratory and research use only. Not for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment or consumption. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.