TFLL Pharma · Molecule 01
MOTS-c
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide — AMPK Activator
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within a short open reading frame of the 12S rRNA (MT-RNR1) region of mitochondrial DNA. It is studied as an energy-sensing regulator acting through the AMPK (Thr172) node. This product is supplied as a lyophilized research-grade peptide for in vitro and preclinical laboratory investigation only.
Identity
| Full name |
Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c (MOTS-c) |
| Sequence |
MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR (16 aa) |
| Residues |
Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg |
| Molecular formula |
C101H152N28O22S2
|
| Molecular weight |
2174.6 Da |
| Encoded by |
mtDNA — 12S rRNA (MT-RNR1) sORF |
| Peptide class |
Mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) |
| Primary node |
AMPK (Thr172) energy sensing |
| Discovery |
Lee et al., 2015 · USC · Cell Metabolism
|
Research axes
Investigational directions enabled by the published mechanism — not therapeutic claims.
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◆AMPK (Thr172) activation and downstream metabolic signaling
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◆GLUT4 translocation and insulin-independent glucose uptake models
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◆mTORC1 restraint and PGC-1α mitochondrial biogenesis studies
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◆Metabolic-aging and NRF2/ARE stress-response research
Mechanism at a glance
In published models, the folate–purine cycle drives AICAR/ZMP accumulation and activates AMPK at Thr172, promoting GLUT4 translocation while restraining mTORC1. Under metabolic stress, MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus and engages the NRF2/ARE antioxidant program, with PGC-1α and NAD⁺ supporting mitochondrial biogenesis and mitonuclear balance.
Key literature: Lee et al., 2015, Cell Metabolism · Kim et al., 2018, Cell Metabolism · Reynolds et al., 2021, Nature Communications.
Regulatory status
| Intended use |
Research use only — not approved for human or animal use |
| Authorization |
No marketing authorization (investigational MDP) |
| WADA |
Not individually named on the Prohibited List |
| Clinical stage |
Phase 2a metabolic trial underway (2026) |
Handling & Storage
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◆Packaging: 5 × 10 mg lyophilized powder, sterile glass vial
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◆Storage: Store at 2–8 °C (refrigerated)
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◆Solubility: Dissolves readily in bacteriostatic water
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◆Reconstitution: Best used shortly after preparation for optimal stability
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◆Purity: HPLC-verified ≥ 98% · batch CoA
Research Quality & Scientific Integrity
◆ Purity
HPLC-verified ≥ 98% with batch CoA |
◆ Evidence
Peer-reviewed citations for all mechanistic claims |
◆ Transparency
Evidence limitations stated per molecule |
◆ Safety
Research use only — not for human or animal consumption |
For Research Use Only. This product is strictly intended for laboratory and research use only. Not suitable for human or animal consumption, diagnostic, or therapeutic use. All use must comply with local regulations and ethical research standards.
TFLL Pharma · TFLL BV · Belgium · Life Span · Health Span · Brain Span · www.tfllpharma.com
