What is MOTS-c?

01

What is MOTS-c made of?

The sequence of MOTS-c is MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR. The reference record lists the formula C101H152N28O22S2 and a molecular weight of 2174.6 g/mol (PubChem CID 146675088).

The name stands for mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA, type c: a description of where its code sits in the mitochondrial genome.

Sources: [2] PubChem · reference structure · [1] Cell Metabolism · 2015

02

Where to buy MOTS-c

MOTS-c is sold direct by Prism Labs at prismlabs.store, in 10mg, 20mg and 40mg vials from $39.99 per vial. The latest published lab report, tested October 26, 2026, measured 99.84% purity. Every lot’s certificate of analysis is on the product page, with a link to verify it with the testing lab.

Orders placed before 4:30 PM CT ship the same day, seven days a week, when the size is in stock. Standard shipping is free over $125. Packs of 2 or more vials are discounted, up to 18% off.

See MOTS-c sizes, prices and lab reports · How to vet any peptide supplier

03

Where did MOTS-c come from?

MOTS-c was first reported in 2015, when a team led by Changhan Lee at the University of Southern California found a short open reading frame inside the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene and characterized the peptide it encodes. Mitochondria carry their own small genome, which is why a peptide can be encoded there.

It joined humanin and a few others in the category now called mitochondrial-derived peptides.

Sources: [1] Cell Metabolism · 2015 · [3] BBA – General Subjects · 2021 · [4] International Journal of Molecular Sciences · 2022

04

What has MOTS-c been studied for?

Research so far is mostly in mice and cultured cells:

• Skeletal-muscle metabolism and insulin signaling, in the 2015 discovery paper.
• Exercise physiology, where reviews discuss how circulating levels relate to physical activity.
• Aging research, summarized in a 2022 review.

These are observations in laboratory models. They are not evidence about any use in people.

Sources: [1] Cell Metabolism · 2015 · [3] BBA – General Subjects · 2021 · [4] International Journal of Molecular Sciences · 2022

05

Mitochondrial-derived vs mitochondria-targeted

Two catalog peptides are linked to mitochondria in different ways. MOTS-c is encoded by mitochondrial DNA. SS-31 is a synthetic peptide designed to reach the inner mitochondrial membrane. Read more: What is SS-31 peptide?

06

Is MOTS-c FDA-approved?

No. MOTS-c is not an FDA-approved drug. In October 2026, HHS said it does not intend to act against state-licensed pharmacies and licensed physicians that compound it for a patient with a prescription, under set conditions. That is not approval, and it does not cover research-use vials like ours. Details: what the HHS peptide policy changed.

07

How is MOTS-c supplied and stored?

MOTS-c ships as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in 10, 20 or 40 mg vials. The powder is stable at room temperature in transit. For lab use it is reconstituted with bacteriostatic water such as Prism H2O.

Concentration is content divided by volume: 10 mg in 2 mL gives 5 mg per mL. The reconstitution calculator handles other combinations.

For storage before and after reconstitution, see how to store lyophilized peptides.

08

How do I verify MOTS-c batches?

Every lot has its own certificate of analysis from an independent lab. Read three results separately:

• Identity: confirms the expected compound was detected.
• Purity: the share of the measured material that is the intended compound.
• Content: the amount measured, compared with the label.

Then match the lot number on your vial or bottle to the report, and use the report’s verification link to confirm it with the testing lab. Step by step: how to read a peptide COA.