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Research Compound

MOTS-C: what it is & how it’s tested

MOTS-C is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) — a short peptide whose sequence is encoded within the mitochondrial genome. It is supplied lyophilised as a research compound for in vitro laboratory study only.

Research use only

For in vitro laboratory research only. Not for human or animal consumption; not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition. 18+.

Written by Sebastian Reuters, Science & Health WriterLast updated August 2026

MOTS-C is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) — a short peptide whose sequence is encoded within the mitochondrial genome. It is supplied lyophilised as a research compound for in vitro laboratory study only.

What MOTS-C is

MOTS-C is a short peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 12S ribosomal RNA gene, making it one of a small class of "mitochondrial-derived peptides." It is manufactured synthetically and studied as a defined research compound.

Its identity is confirmed by mass spectrometry and its purity measured by HPLC, so each batch can be reported on an independent Certificate of Analysis.

Where MOTS-C appears in research

In the research literature, MOTS-C is studied in metabolic and mitochondrial-biology research models. This describes the research domain in which the compound appears, not a claim of any effect. MOTS-C is not a medicine, supplement or cosmetic, and is not approved for human or veterinary use.

How MOTS-C should be tested

Quality is a matter of evidence, not the label. A credible supplier tests every batch at an independent laboratory: HPLC measures purity as a percentage (commonly to a ≥99% benchmark), and mass spectrometry confirms the compound’s identity.

The result should be a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis you can verify at source. Learn how to read a COA, or see BioHack London’s independent MOTS-C reports.

Storage, handling and reconstitution

Lyophilised (freeze-dried) MOTS-C is generally kept cool, dry and out of light. Reconstitution — dissolving it in a suitable solvent such as bacteriostatic water — is done immediately before laboratory use, and the reconstituted solution is typically refrigerated and used within a limited period.

Our reconstitution calculator helps work out solvent volumes, and bacteriostatic water is available in the range.

MOTS-C: frequently asked questions

What is MOTS-C?

MOTS-C is a mitochondrial-derived peptide — a short peptide whose sequence is encoded within the mitochondrial genome. It is supplied as a lyophilised research compound for in vitro laboratory research use only.

What does "mitochondrial-derived peptide" mean?

It refers to a small group of peptides encoded within the mitochondrial genome rather than the cell nucleus. MOTS-C is one of the best-studied examples in this class within the research literature.

How is MOTS-C tested?

A credible supplier tests each batch at an independent laboratory — HPLC for purity (commonly to a ≥99% benchmark) and mass spectrometry to confirm identity — and publishes a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis you can verify at source.

Is MOTS-C for human use?

No. MOTS-C is supplied strictly for in vitro laboratory research. It is not for human or animal consumption and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition. Purchasers must be 18 or over.

Related research compounds

MOTS-C, independently tested and verifiable.

Every batch is tested to a minimum 99% purity, with a Certificate of Analysis you can verify.