Peptide comparison
Both are grouped as “mitochondrial” peptides, but the label hides fundamental differences. MOTS-c is made by the mitochondrion itself and acts as a signal to the rest of the cell; SS-31 is a synthetic tetrapeptide that travels to the inner mitochondrial membrane to stabilise it.
Compare mechanism, class, receptors and evidence. All compounds are offered with ≥99% purity verified by HPLC and a batch COA.
| MOTS-c | SS-31 (elamipretide) | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Encoded in mitochondrial DNA (12S rRNA gene) | Synthetic |
| Size | 16 amino acids | 4 amino acids (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH₂) |
| Described target | AMPK pathway and cell metabolism; can move to the nucleus | Cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane |
| Role | Signal from the mitochondrion to the cell | Respiratory chain stabiliser |
| Research focus | Glucose metabolism, exercise, ageing | Mitochondrial diseases, cardiac and muscle function |
| Development stage | Preclinical | Evaluated in clinical trials |
MOTS-c belongs to the mitochondrial-derived peptides: it was discovered by analysing the mitochondrial genome itself. In cell and animal models it has been linked to AMPK activation, insulin sensitivity and the response to exercise, and it has been described as moving to the nucleus under stress to influence gene expression. All of its evidence is, for now, preclinical.
SS-31 is not a signal but a tool: its structure, with positive charges and alternating aromatic amino acids, lets it concentrate in the inner mitochondrial membrane and bind to cardiolipin, protecting the organisation of the respiratory chain. Of the two, it is the one that has progressed furthest in clinical development, with trials in rare mitochondrial diseases.
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No. MOTS-c is a peptide made by the mitochondrion that acts as a metabolic signal (AMPK pathway); SS-31 is a synthetic peptide that binds to and stabilises cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
A phospholipid found almost only in the inner mitochondrial membrane, essential for the respiratory chain complexes to work efficiently. It is the described target of SS-31.
SS-31 (elamipretide), which has been evaluated in clinical trials. The evidence for MOTS-c is preclinical.
Purity ≥99% verificada por HPLC and batch COA.
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