MOTS-C Explained: Compound Profile, Research & COA Documentation

MOTS-C is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide identified in research on cellular metabolism. Its name refers to a short open reading frame within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA region. For a laboratory evaluating a supplied material, the key questions are its identity, the amount stated on the label, and the analytical documentation associated with its batch.

This guide explains the compound’s research background and how to review a MOTS-C product listing and Certificate of Analysis (COA). Vertex Labs supplies research materials only. Not for human or veterinary use.

What is MOTS-C?

Lee and colleagues described MOTS-c in a 2015 study published in Cell Metabolism. The work identified a short sequence encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA region and investigated its relationship to metabolic signaling in experimental models. Read the original 2015 study on PubMed.

MOTS-C, MOTS-c, and MOTS c are formatting variations commonly used for the compound’s name. A name alone is not sufficient to identify a supplied sample: researchers should also compare the product specification, vial label, and corresponding analytical report.

Why is MOTS-C studied?

A 2018 study by Kim and colleagues investigated movement of MOTS-c into the nucleus during metabolic stress and its involvement in gene regulation in experimental cell systems. This makes communication between mitochondria and the nucleus one area of research interest. Read the 2018 study on PubMed.

These publications provide scientific context. They do not establish that a commercial research vial has the same properties as a study material, and they do not validate a Vertex Labs batch. Product-specific evidence must come from the corresponding documentation. Findings from experimental models should not be presented as promised outcomes in people.

MOTS-C 20 mg and 40 mg: what the labels mean

Vertex Labs lists MOTS-C in 20 mg and 40 mg presentations as lyophilized research material. These labels describe the stated amount per vial. They are not concentration values or instructions for use.

• 20 mg presentation: review the specifications and report associated with that presentation and lot.
• 40 mg presentation: review its own specifications and report; do not assume the 20 mg report applies.
• Either presentation: match the lot number on the supplied vial with the document being reviewed.

See the MOTS-C 20 mg and 40 mg product page for current pricing, availability, specifications, and the linked batch reports.

What should you check on a MOTS-C COA?

Start with the document’s scope. A report describes a tested sample and the analyses stated in that report. Check what was measured before interpreting a result.

1. Sample identification: compare the compound name, presentation, and lot number with the material supplied.
2. Report traceability: locate the laboratory name, report identifier, and relevant dates.
3. Analytical methods: identify the method listed beside each result rather than relying on a general testing claim.
4. Result and units: distinguish an identity result, a reported purity percentage, and an amount measurement. Do not assume one answers all three questions.
5. Missing information: request clarification if an analysis your laboratory requires is not reported.

The product page links the reports by presentation. You can also browse the Vertex Labs COA database and read our Testing Standards.

Questions about MOTS-C research materials

Does the same COA cover every vial size?

Do not assume so. Use the report that matches the presentation and lot of the supplied material. If the match is unclear, resolve it before relying on the report.

Does a published study verify a supplier’s product?

No. A research publication and a batch report answer different questions. The publication describes its study; the report documents the analyses performed on a specified sample.

Where can I find the current MOTS-C batch reports?

Open the MOTS-C certificates by presentation in the product’s Quality & Documentation section, then compare the report with your vial label.

Is Vertex Labs MOTS-C intended for human use?

No. It is supplied exclusively for laboratory research. Not for human consumption, veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of disease.

Scientific references

• Lee C. et al. Cell Metabolism (2015), 21(3):443–454. Original MOTS-c identification and metabolic research. DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2015.02.009.
• Kim K. H. et al. Cell Metabolism (2018), 28(3):516–524.e7. MOTS-c localization and gene regulation during metabolic stress. DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2018.06.008.