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ProtocolMots cMay 18, 2026

MOTS-c reconstitution protocol

Reconstitution of MOTS-c, the mitochondrial-derived peptide studied for AMPK activation and metabolic signaling.

RECONSTITUTION & RESEARCH PROTOCOLS

Emerging clinical evidence

Research protocol intensities, summarized from published literature. The math is computed for the vial size you pick. Not a dosing recommendation.

Rodent literature well-replicated (Lee et al. 2015 Cell Metab). Human research limited but expanding.

RESEARCH MODE
Final concentration
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Reference research protocols from published peer-reviewed studies. Each card cites its source. This calculator is not a dosing recommendation. For research use only. Selection of any specific protocol is the responsibility of the qualified investigator under appropriate institutional oversight.

This protocol describes the reconstitution and storage of lyophilized MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA-c) in standard research workflows. MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA — it's the first member of a class called "mitochondrial-derived peptides" and is studied for its role in metabolic regulation, insulin sensitivity, and exercise response. Values below reflect published handling literature; study design is the responsibility of the qualified investigator.

At a glance

Parameter Value
Recommended diluent Bacteriostatic Water (USP, 0.9% benzyl alcohol)
Recommended volume (20 mg vial) 2.0 mL
Final concentration 10 mg/mL
Stability — lyophilized ≥24 months at -20 °C, light-protected, sealed
Stability — reconstituted 30 days at 2–8 °C in original vial
Freeze-thaw Avoid on reconstituted solution. Aliquot for longer storage.

Procedure

  1. Equilibrate the vial to room temperature.
  2. Sterile prep: wipe stopper with isopropyl. Use sterile syringe and needle.
  3. Inject diluent slowly along the inner wall.
  4. Swirl gently. Do not shake. Cake dissolves within 30–60 seconds.
  5. Verify: solution should be clear and colorless.

Compound notes

MOTS-c (MFRLRELLKKLPAAEEK) is one of a small number of peptides encoded by mitochondrial DNA rather than the nuclear genome. The peptide is exported from mitochondria into the cytoplasm and circulation, where it acts as a signaling molecule — most prominently activating AMPK in skeletal muscle and modulating folate-cycle metabolism. Plasma levels are known to decline with age in humans, which is the basis for much of the aging-research interest.

The peptide is relatively well-behaved in solution: tolerant of standard buffers, no unusual sensitivity to ionic strength or pH within physiological range. Plasma half-life is short (~1–2 hours in rodent models), so research protocols typically use daily or every-other-day administration.

Storage

Reconstituted MOTS-c is stable for approximately 30 days at 2–8 °C. For longer storage, aliquot into sterile single-use tubes and freeze at -20 °C or colder. Lyophilized stability is ≥24 months at -20 °C light-protected.

Notes

This protocol describes reconstitution parameters from published handling literature. It is not a recommendation for any specific research protocol or design. For research use only. Not for human consumption.

References

  1. Lee C, Zeng J, Drew BG, et al. The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance. Cell Metab 2015;21:443–454. PMID: 25738459
  2. Kim SJ, Miller B, Mehta HH, et al. The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c is a regulator of plasma metabolites and enhances insulin sensitivity. Physiol Rep 2019;7:e14171. PMID: 31293078
MOTS-c 20mg — Research Peptide

MOTS-c 20mg — Research Peptide

99.381% HPLC ·Independently tested · COA provided

$130.00

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