MOTS-c

Research Profile

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA Type-c) was discovered by Dr. Pinchas Cohen's laboratory at the University of Southern California. It is the first mitochondrial-derived peptide shown to act as a systemic hormone. MOTS-c activates the AMPK pathway, enhancing glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation, and metabolic homeostasis. Under metabolic stress, MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus where it regulates adaptive nuclear gene expression through interaction with the antioxidant response element (ARE). In preclinical studies, MOTS-c has prevented diet-induced obesity, improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced exercise capacity, and extended healthspan. It represents a paradigm-shifting discovery that mitochondria communicate with the nucleus through secreted peptide hormones.