The mitochondrion keeps a small genome of its own. For years it was thought to encode only components of the respiratory chain, until regions of that DNA were found to hide small open reading frames that produce biologically active peptides: mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs).
MOTS-c, 16 amino acids long, is encoded in the 12S ribosomal RNA gene. In experimental models it has been linked to the AMPK pathway, glucose metabolism and the response to exercise, and it can move to the cell nucleus under stress. Humanin, encoded in the 16S RNA, is studied for cytoprotective effects.
They should not be confused with peptides targeted to the mitochondrion, such as SS-31: that one is synthetic and acts on the mitochondrial membrane, but it does not come from the mitochondrial genome.
It is a young field: most MDP data come from cell and animal models. Understanding their origin helps place MOTS-c against other “longevity” compounds in the catalogue.
Related terms
Learn it in depth at the Peptide University
- Longevity and mitochondrial function · Module 6
- Complementary monographs (16–20) · Module 14
Related catalogue compounds
Definition for educational and scientific purposes. It is not medical advice or a recommendation for use. NeoPeptidos products are sold labelled for research use only (RUO).