MOTS-c vs Glutathione: Mitochondrial Research Compounds
Comparing a mitochondrial-derived signaling peptide with the cellular antioxidant tripeptide for laboratory research applications.
Quick Comparison
| Category | MOTS-c | Glutathione |
|---|---|---|
| Compound Type | Mitochondrial-derived peptide | Reduced glutathione tripeptide |
| Amino Acid Length | 16 amino acids | 3 amino acids |
| Origin | Encoded in mitochondrial DNA | Synthesized from Glu, Cys, Gly |
| Primary Research Focus | Metabolic signaling & AMPK pathways | Antioxidant capacity & redox balance |
| Mechanism | Signaling peptide | Redox buffer molecule |
| Purity Standard | ≥98% HPLC verified | ≥98% HPLC verified |
| Availability | 10mg, 40mg vials | 1500mg vials |
What Is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA Type-c) is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial genome. It represents a class of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) that function as signaling molecules.
In laboratory research, MOTS-c is studied for:
- AMPK pathway activation research
- Metabolic regulation studies
- Mitochondrial-nuclear communication
- Cellular energy homeostasis models
MOTS-c has gained significant research interest due to its unique origin as a mitochondrially-encoded signaling peptide with metabolic regulatory properties.
What Is Glutathione?
Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide composed of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It is the most abundant intracellular antioxidant and plays a critical role in maintaining cellular redox balance.
In research environments, glutathione is studied for:
- Oxidative stress and ROS neutralization
- Cellular detoxification pathways
- Redox signaling mechanisms
- Mitochondrial protection models
As the primary cellular antioxidant, glutathione research is fundamental to understanding oxidative stress and cellular defense mechanisms.
Key Differences for Researchers
These compounds represent fundamentally different approaches to cellular research:
Mechanism of Action
MOTS-c functions as a signaling peptide, activating pathways like AMPK through receptor-mediated mechanisms. Glutathioneacts as a chemical antioxidant, directly neutralizing reactive oxygen species through its thiol group.
Research Applications
MOTS-c research focuses on metabolic signaling, energy regulation, and mitochondrial communication. Glutathione research centers on oxidative stress, detoxification, and redox homeostasis.
Mitochondrial Connection
MOTS-c is encoded by mitochondrial DNA and represents retrograde mitochondrial-nuclear signaling. Glutathione is synthesized in the cytoplasm but is actively transported into mitochondria for protection.
Complementary Research
Researchers studying mitochondrial health may examine both compounds: MOTS-c for understanding signaling-based regulation and glutathione for oxidative protection mechanisms.
The Mitochondrial Peptide Landscape
MOTS-c belongs to a growing family of mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) that researchers are actively investigating:
- Humanin: The first identified MDP, studied for cytoprotective properties
- SHLP1-6: Small humanin-like peptides with various research applications
- MOTS-c: Metabolic regulator acting through AMPK pathways
This emerging field represents an exciting area of research into how mitochondria communicate with the rest of the cell through peptide signaling.
Why Documentation & Testing Matter
In research settings, the reliability of results depends entirely on the quality and consistency of materials used. Third-party verification provides an objective baseline for researchers to trust their experimental inputs.
Third-Party Testing
Independent laboratory verification ensures unbiased purity and identity confirmation.
Batch Consistency
Each production batch is individually tested and documented for reproducibility.
≥98% Purity Standard
HPLC and mass spectrometry verification for research-grade quality assurance.
Transparent COAs
Complete Certificates of Analysis available for every product and batch.
Research-Grade Standards from Maple Research Labs
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Independent Lab Testing
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Research-Only Compliance
Clear labeling and documentation designed for legitimate research applications.
Consistent Quality Standards
Rigorous QC protocols ensure batch-to-batch consistency for reliable research outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are mitochondrial-derived peptides?
Mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) are small peptides encoded within the mitochondrial genome. MOTS-c is one of several MDPs that have been identified and are studied for their roles in cellular signaling and metabolic regulation.
How does glutathione differ from signaling peptides?
Glutathione is a tripeptide antioxidant that functions primarily as a redox buffer, neutralizing reactive oxygen species. Unlike signaling peptides such as MOTS-c, glutathione's primary role is chemical rather than receptor-mediated signaling.
Why might researchers study both compounds?
Researchers studying cellular health and metabolism may examine both compounds to understand different aspects of mitochondrial function—MOTS-c for signaling pathways and glutathione for oxidative stress models.
Are these compounds approved for human use?
These are research compounds intended for laboratory investigation only. They are not approved for human or veterinary use. All products are sold strictly for research purposes.
What documentation is available?
All products have batch-specific Certificates of Analysis available with HPLC purity data, mass spectrometry verification, and complete documentation for research records.
Explore Research-Grade Compounds
All products include third-party testing documentation, batch-specific Certificates of Analysis, and secure checkout. For research use only.
Research Use Only: Products are intended for laboratory and scientific research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use. By purchasing, you confirm compliance with all applicable regulations.