MOTS-c is a relatively new peptide of 16 amino acids that promote metabolic balance. It regulates metabolic functions throughout the body. For instance, it turns glucose into usable energy.
The DNA in the cell nucleus encodes most peptides. But, the mitochondria’s DNA encodes MOTS-c making it unique among peptides.
Research by the University of Southern California found this peptide may help fight weight gain and normalize metabolism – similar to effects mostly linked with exercise.In mouse studies, the peptide aided glucose metabolism, even when the mice ate a high-fat diet.
These initial studies could indicate improved blood sugar control for those with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
MOTS-C in Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a multi-factor and age-related metabolic disease. Bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCS) are the progenitor cells of osteoblasts and adipocytes and play an essential role in the process of bone formation.
AMPK can stimulate the proliferation, differentiation and mineralization of osteoblasts, which exerts an important role in the cellular functions of osteoblasts. Osteoblasts are cells that make bone. Bone mass is maintained by a balance between the activity of osteoblasts that form bone and other cells called osteoclasts that break it down.
Studies show that BMSC’s treated with MOTS-C upregulated expression levels of ALP, Bglap, and Runx2. This resulted in the formation of mineralized nodules, indicating the osteogenic capacity of BMSC’s regulated by MOTS-C. In simple nonscientific terms,
MOTS-C promotes cell differentiation of BMSCs to osteoblasts = bone formation.
