Skip to main content

Mitochondria-Derived Peptides

Meaning

Mitochondria-Derived Peptides (MDPs) are a novel, biologically active class of short peptides that are uniquely encoded by small open reading frames within the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), separate from the nuclear genome. These peptides, which include molecules like Humanin and MOTS-c, function as crucial signaling molecules that modulate cellular metabolism, regulate the stress response, and govern overall mitochondrial function. They play a pivotal, recently discovered role in inter-organ communication, influencing systemic processes such as insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and the rate of cellular aging. Due to their potent cytoprotective effects, MDPs are an intense area of research for their therapeutic potential in age-related and metabolic disorders.