MOTS-C

MOTS-C (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide that functions as a cellular exercise mimetic. Its primary mechanism involves activating the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, which is a crucial metabolic master switch. By increasing AMPK phosphorylation, MOTS-C enhances glucose uptake via GLUT4 translocation and improves systemic insulin sensitivity independently of the insulin receptor. It also promotes metabolic flexibility by shifting cellular fuel utilization from glucose to fatty acid oxidation during stress conditions. In age-related research, MOTS-C has demonstrated a remarkable ability to combat sarcopenia and improve physical performance in aged murine models. It is extensively studied for its role in treating metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and mitochondrial dysfunction disorders. Due to its rapid systemic clearance, researchers often utilize it in continuous infusion protocols or multi-dose regimens for sustained AMPK activation.