Where to Buy MOTS-c
Research-Grade Sourcing Guide (2026)
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 12S ribosomal RNA gene of mitochondrial DNA — a distinct class from nuclear-encoded research peptides. First described in 2015, it is studied for its roles in metabolic regulation, insulin sensitivity, exercise physiology, and cellular stress response.
At a Glance
Helixera Labs MOTS-c — $110.40
Third-party tested · Batch-specific COA · Same or next business day · For research use only
1. Research overview and regulatory status
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c) is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded in the 12S rRNA region of mitochondrial DNA. Its mitochondrial encoding is unusual — most peptides studied in research are nuclear-encoded. This origin makes it part of a growing class called mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs), which includes humanin and SHLPs.
MOTS-c is not FDA-approved for any indication and has no pharmaceutical equivalent. It is not a scheduled controlled substance and is legal to purchase for legitimate laboratory research.
Research use only. MOTS-c sold by Helixera Labs is for laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary use.
2. Why sourcing quality matters more for MOTS-c
Small Vendor Pool
MOTS-c is not carried by all research peptide vendors. Fewer vendors means more variability in what "research grade" means in practice.
Degradation Sensitivity
MOTS-c is more sensitive to improper storage and heat exposure than longer, more stable peptides. Cold-chain shipping is critical.
Sequence Verification Required
The 16-amino acid sequence must be verified by mass spectrometry — HPLC purity alone cannot confirm correct sequence identity.
Emerging Research Area
As a relatively recently characterized peptide, fewer established reference standards exist for benchmarking vendor quality.
3. Vendor evaluation criteria
Research-Grade MOTS-c — Vendor Checklist
- ≥98% HPLC purity from an independent laboratory
- Mass spectrometry confirming correct 16-amino acid sequence identity (MW ~2,174 Da)
- Batch-specific COA with matching lot number
- Cold-chain shipping as standard
- Lyophilized powder format in sealed glass vial
- US-based operation with verifiable identity
- Research-only compliance language
Red flags: HPLC only with no MS · No cold-chain shipping · Generic COA not lot-matched · Pricing significantly below market · Any therapeutic claims
4. Storage and handling requirements
Storage note: Lyophilized MOTS-c should be stored at -20°C for long-term stability. It is more degradation-sensitive than peptides like BPC-157 — minimize room temperature exposure, keep sealed until use, and reconstitute only the quantity needed for immediate research use.
5. 2026 pricing overview
| Format | Quality vendor range | Budget range |
|---|---|---|
| 5mg vial | $90–$130 | $50–$75 |
| 10mg vial | $160–$210 | $90–$130 |
6. Helixera Labs MOTS-c
MOTS-c — Research Grade
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide · 16 Amino Acids · Lyophilized Powder · For research use only
- ≥98% purity — third-party HPLC and MS tested
- Batch-specific COA on request
- Same or next business day fulfillment from Ukiah, CA
- Free 2-day shipping on orders $150+
- Discreet plain packaging · US-based fulfillment
- Support: 1-866-463-0683
FAQ
Order MOTS-c from Helixera Labs
≥98% purity · MS verified · Batch COA · Cold-chain capable · For research use only