MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) Overview.
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Description:
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the 12S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). It belongs to a family of bioactive peptides that are produced by mitochondria and are involved in regulating metabolic functions, cellular homeostasis, and stress responses. MOTS-c is composed of 16 amino acids and functions as a signaling molecule that modulates nuclear gene expression and metabolic pathways to maintain cellular balance and respond to metabolic stress.
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Molecular Structure and Sequence
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Molecular Formula: C89H139N25O26
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Molecular Weight: ~1640.2 Da
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Amino Acid Sequence: Met-Arg-Trp-Gly-Tyr-Met-Pro-Phe-Leu-Ser-Pro-Tyr-Ser-Arg-Lys-Leu (MRWGYMPFLSPYSRKL)
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Mechanism of Action:
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MOTS-c exerts its biological effects through a series of interactions involving cellular signaling pathways and metabolic regulation:
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1. AMPK Activation:
MOTS-c activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key energy sensor in cells. Activation of AMPK enhances glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation, and mitochondrial biogenesis, while also inhibiting anabolic processes such as protein and lipid synthesis.
Increased AMPK activity leads to improved insulin sensitivity and enhanced energy production.
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2. Metabolic Homeostasis and Insulin Sensitivity:
MOTS-c enhances glucose metabolism by promoting GLUT4 translocation to the cell membrane, facilitating glucose uptake in muscle cells.
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It regulates insulin signaling, improving glucose utilization and reducing insulin resistance.
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3. Mitochondrial-Nuclear Communication:
MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus under metabolic stress, where it binds to specific transcription factors such as Nrf2 and ATF1.
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This interaction leads to the upregulation of stress response and antioxidant genes, enhancing cellular resilience to oxidative damage and metabolic dysfunction.
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4. Anti-Aging and Longevity Effects:
MOTS-c has been shown to promote lifespan extension and cellular protection in various model organisms by improving mitochondrial function, reducing inflammation, and enhancing metabolic flexibility.
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5. Regulation of Muscle Adaptation:
MOTS-c enhances muscle cell function and recovery through increased mitochondrial biogenesis and protein synthesis.
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It improves exercise capacity and endurance by increasing ATP production and reducing muscle fatigue.
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6. Stress Response and Cytoprotection:
MOTS-c helps protect cells against metabolic and oxidative stress by activating protective genes and reducing the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).
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Research Findings:
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MOTS-c levels decline with age, and supplementation has been shown to reverse age-related metabolic decline in preclinical studies.
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Increased MOTS-c expression correlates with improved glucose metabolism, enhanced mitochondrial function, and reduced inflammation in animal models.
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Potential therapeutic applications of MOTS-c are being explored in metabolic disorders, age-related diseases, and muscle-wasting conditions.
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**MOTS-c is currently being studied in preclinical and clinical research settings. While promising results have been observed in animal and cellular models, further investigation is required to fully understand its therapeutic potential and safety profile.
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**FOR RESEARCH PURPOSES ONLY. NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION.
MOTS-c is intended solely for laboratory research use. It is not approved for human use, clinical diagnosis, or therapeutic applications. Misuse of this product is strictly prohibited.