© Core Peptides The expanding field of mitochondrial-derived peptides has introduced a compelling layer of complexity to cellular communication networks. Among these peptides, MOTS-c (mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c) has emerged as a particularly intriguing signaling molecule. Encoded within the mitochondrial genome rather than the nuclear genome, MOTS-c challenges traditional assumptions regarding mitochondrial function, suggesting that mitochondria may act not only as ene...