MOTS-c

MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA — one of a new class of 'mitokines' that act as metabolic stress signals. It circulates in the blood, responds to exercise and fasting, and regulates whole-body metabolism. Research interest in oncology centres on its ability to normalise cancer metabolism (Warburg effect) and sensitise cancer cells to chemotherapy.

Properties

Amino Acid Sequence

MRWQEMGYIFYPRKLR

Origin: Encoded within the mitochondrial genome (12S ribosomal RNA gene); naturally occurring

Activates AMPK (the same master metabolic switch targeted by metformin), suppresses the MAPK/ERK proliferation pathway, and promotes folate cycle and de novo purine synthesis regulation. Most notably, MOTS-c has been shown to inhibit the Warburg effect in cancer cells — forcing them back from anaerobic glycolysis toward normal oxidative phosphorylation, which makes them more vulnerable to conventional treatment. Also promotes muscle glucose uptake and reduces insulin resistance.

Pre-clinical evidence shows MOTS-c inhibits ovarian cancer, liver cancer, and colon cancer cell proliferation by AMPK activation and cell cycle arrest. Synergises with cisplatin in ovarian cancer models — re-sensitising resistant cells. Also relevant to cancer-associated metabolic dysfunction (cachexia, insulin resistance, fatigue) where its muscle-preserving and insulin-sensitising actions may help maintain treatment tolerance.

Links open on PubMed (National Library of Medicine). Research is ongoing — results may not reflect clinical use.

• No human clinical trials completed — pre-clinical only
• Research compound; not approved by any regulatory agency
• Hypoglycaemia possible if combined with diabetes medications
• Quality and purity vary significantly between suppliers