Protective and multi-organ effects of MOTS-c and other mitochondrial-derived peptides in the endocrine system

Abstract

The discovery of mitochondria-derived peptides has facilitated a comprehensive understanding of their protective effects on various organs. One of such peptides, Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-C (MOTS-c), was initially characterized in 2015 as a bioactive molecule that regulates gene expression and cellular metabolism via 5’-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). MOTS-c has exhibited notable protective effects across diverse organs, including protection against diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, alleviating the impacts of ageing, and regulating the immune response. Despite these well-established functions, the precise role of MOTS-c in the endocrine system remains elusive. However, recent research emphasizes the increasing significance of MOTS-c and other mitochondrial-derived peptides in regulating endocrine system function and addressing metabolism-related diseases. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the current information on the action of MOTS-c and other mitochondrial--derived peptides in various endocrine system organs.