MOTS-C, or Mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA type-c, is a critical peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). It plays a significant role in regulating the nuclear genome during stress, contributing to cellular homeostasis. This peptide is pivotal in understanding age-related eye health due to its involvement in mitochondrial health, a key factor in ageing and retinal degeneration.
What is MOTS-C?
MOTS-C is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded by mtDNA. Along with other MDPs like human and SHLP1-6, it exhibits various protective effects, such as neuroprotective, cytoprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic properties. These properties are essential in reversing insulin resistance, slowing ageing, and reducing inflammation, which is beneficial in treating retinal diseases.
The Connection Between Mitochondria and Aging:
Mitochondria, particularly in the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), are central to aging-related processes in the eye. MtDNA instability leads to mitochondrial damage, causing age-related eye disorders. Ageing is associated with fewer retinal neurons, higher rates of mtDNA mutations, and decreased cell density, all of which contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction, recognized as a key element in age-related eye diseases like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy (DR), and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
MOTS-C and Age-Related Eye Health:
MOTS-C has shown promise in treating glaucoma, as it can activate SIRT1, influencing the expression of antioxidant pathways and cytoprotective genes. This activation may restore energy production in cells with impaired oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), offering a potential therapeutic approach in glaucoma. In diabetic retinopathy, hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress leads to mitochondrial damage and apoptosis in retinal capillary cells, a process that could potentially be mitigated by MOTS-C. Moreover, in AMD, MOTS-C’s role is highlighted by its protective effects on RPE cells, which are vulnerable to mtDNA damage. MOTS-C’s expression in these cells can provide elevated protection, especially in conditions of oxidative stress.
Other Health Benefits of MOTS-C
Beyond its promising role in age-related eye health, MOTS-C has demonstrated a broad spectrum of other health benefits. Its properties as a mitochondrial-derived peptide contribute significantly to systemic metabolic health. For instance, MOTS-C has been shown to play a role in regulating metabolism, including influencing insulin sensitivity, which is pivotal in managing conditions like diabetes and obesity. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties suggest a potential role in cardiovascular health, potentially reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and other heart-related conditions. The peptide’s general protective effects on mitochondrial function also suggest its importance in neurodegenerative diseases, where mitochondrial dysfunction is a common feature. Hence, MOTS-C not only offers benefits for eye health but also represents a significant potential in the broader context of aging and age-related diseases.
How to Support Healthy Mitochondria and Eye Health
Maintaining healthy mitochondria is crucial for overall health, particularly for eye health as one ages. Lifestyle and dietary choices can significantly impact mitochondrial health. Regular physical activity, for instance, is known to enhance mitochondrial function and biogenesis. Dietary choices that include nutrient-rich, antioxidant foods can help mitigate oxidative stress, a key factor in mitochondrial and eye health. Incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, and colourful fruits and vegetables can support retinal health. Additionally, managing stress levels and ensuring adequate sleep are important in maintaining overall mitochondrial health. While research into MOTS-C and its direct supplementation is still evolving, these lifestyle strategies can complement its potential benefits for mitochondrial and eye health.
Conclusion
MOTS-C, a mitochondrial-derived peptide, emerges as a key player in age-related eye health and offers a broader spectrum of health benefits. Its role in mitochondrial function and its protective properties against oxidative stress and inflammation make it a promising therapeutic target in conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. Beyond eye health, MOTS-C’s impact on systemic metabolism, cardiovascular health, and potentially neurodegenerative diseases highlights its significance in the context of ageing and longevity. Maintaining healthy mitochondria through lifestyle and dietary choices is essential, and the potential of MOTS-C supplementation offers an exciting avenue for future research and therapeutic development. As our understanding of MOTS-C continues to grow, it holds great promise for improving age-related health challenges, particularly in eye health.