MOTS-c vs SS-31
Both target mitochondrial function, but one is a mitochondrially-encoded signaling peptide and the other a cardiolipin-binding structural agent.
Longevity
MOTS-c
16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide studied for AMPK activation and metabolic homeostasis.
Longevity
SS-31
Mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide with high affinity for cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane.
Side by side
| Dimension | MOTS-c | SS-31 |
|---|---|---|
| Molecular weight A 3.4× difference in mass — these are not comparable on a milligram-for-milligram basis. | 2174.61 g/mol | 639.79 g/mol |
| Size class | mid-length peptide | short peptide |
| CAS number | 1627580-64-7 | 736992-21-5 |
| Research area | longevity | longevity |
| Sequence | Met-Arg-Trp-Gln-Glu-Met-Gly-Tyr-Ile-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Lys-Leu-Arg | D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2 |
| Available sizes | 10mg | 10mg |
| Entry price | $49 | $49 |
| Cost per mg | $4.90 | $4.90 |
Mechanism
MOTS-c
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene — one of a small class of mitochondrial-derived peptides that upended the assumption that the mitochondrial genome encodes only respiratory chain components. Research has focused on its translocation to the nucleus under metabolic stress and its role in AMPK-dependent signaling.
SS-31
SS-31 is a cell-permeable tetrapeptide that concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane through interaction with cardiolipin, a phospholipid essential to cristae architecture and respiratory supercomplex assembly. Its alternating aromatic-cationic motif drives membrane targeting independent of mitochondrial membrane potential — a mechanistic distinction from earlier targeting strategies such as TPP+ conjugation.
Research applications
MOTS-c
- AMPK pathway activation studies
- Mitochondrial-nuclear retrograde signaling research
- Folate-methionine cycle interaction assays
- Exercise physiology and metabolic stress models
SS-31
- Cardiolipin binding and cristae morphology studies
- Mitochondrial respiration and ATP synthesis assays
- Reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress models
- Ischemia-reperfusion injury research
Common questions
What is the difference between MOTS-c and SS-31?
MOTS-c is 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide studied for AMPK activation and metabolic homeostasis. SS-31 is mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide with high affinity for cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane. They differ in molecular weight (2174.61 vs 639.79 g/mol) and in the pathways they are studied against.
Which is more cost-effective per milligram, MOTS-c or SS-31?
MOTS-c is lower at approximately $4.90 per milligram at its best tier, against $4.90 for the other. Cost per milligram is only meaningful relative to the concentrations a given protocol requires, since these compounds are not used at comparable masses.
Can MOTS-c and SS-31 be studied together?
Combination designs appear in the published literature for a number of these compounds. Whether it is appropriate for a given protocol depends entirely on the model and endpoint. We supply research compounds and do not provide protocol guidance — consult the primary literature for your specific model.
How should MOTS-c and SS-31 be stored?
Store lyophilized powder at -20°C protected from light. Reconstituted solution stable at 2-8°C for up to 30 days. For SS-31: Store lyophilized powder at -20°C protected from light. Reconstituted solution stable at 2-8°C for up to 30 days.
All products are intended strictly for laboratory research use. Not for human or veterinary use. Not for diagnostic or therapeutic use. Not a drug, food, or cosmetic.
Comparison generated from NuVida Vital catalog data. Every specification is reconciled against the certificate of analysis for the shipped batch.