Glossary

Short factual definitions of key terms in MOTS-c and mitochondrial biology research.

Last reviewed and updated:

MOTS-c
A 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded in the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene. It is studied in metabolic signaling research. MOTS-c overview
Mitochondrial-derived peptide
A short peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA. Examples include Humanin and MOTS-c. Research library
Mitochondria
Organelles that generate most of a cell's ATP and take part in metabolic signaling. The science
AMPK
AMP-activated protein kinase, a cellular energy sensor. Research has examined its relationship to MOTS-c. References
Metabolic signaling
Molecular communication that regulates how cells use and store energy. Research areas
Peptide
A short chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. Research library
Amino acid
The building blocks of peptides and proteins. Research library
HPLC
High-performance liquid chromatography, a method that separates a sample's components and is commonly used to estimate purity. Testing
Mass spectrometry
A technique that measures molecular mass, used to support peptide identity. Testing
LC-MS
Liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, combining separation with mass measurement. Testing
Certificate of analysis
A report of test results for a specific lot of material. COA guide
In-vitro research
Research done in cells or isolated systems outside a living organism. Studies
Preclinical research
Research in cells or animals before human trials. Studies
Human research
Studies involving people, from observational measurements to clinical trials. Human research
Humanin
A mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded in the 16S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA. MOTS-c vs Humanin
Mitochondrial DNA
The small circular genome inside mitochondria, which encodes a few proteins and peptides such as MOTS-c. Timeline