Overview
SS-31 (elamipretide) is a cell-permeable tetrapeptide that selectively concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane with 1,000-fold higher uptake than the cytoplasm. It binds to cardiolipin, a phospholipid critical for cristae structure and electron transport chain efficiency. Clinical trials have demonstrated improvements in heart failure, age-related muscle decline, and mitochondrial disease.
Mechanism of action
SS-31 interacts with cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing cristae structure and maintaining optimal cytochrome c association for electron transport. This reduces electron leak and superoxide generation, lowers mitochondrial ROS, and restores ATP synthesis efficiency. It also inhibits cardiolipin peroxidation, preventing pro-apoptotic cytochrome c release.
Selected literature
- [01]
SS-31 reverses mitochondrial dysfunction and rescues diastolic function in heart failure
Chatfield K.C. et al. · JACC: Basic to Translational Science · 2019
SS-31 restored mitochondrial cristae morphology and improved cardiac energetics in a large animal model of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.
- [02]
Elamipretide improves mitochondrial function in aged skeletal muscle
Siegel M.P. et al. · Aging Cell · 2013
SS-31 treatment in aged mice improved mitochondrial ATP production, reduced ROS, and enhanced exercise capacity to levels approaching young animals.
- [03]
Mitochondria-targeted peptide accelerates ATP recovery and reduces ROS generation
Szeto H.H. · Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics · 2008
SS-31 concentrated 1,000-fold in the inner mitochondrial membrane and reduced oxidative damage by over 70% in ischemia-reperfusion injury models.
The information on this page is summarized from the published research literature and is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used to guide treatment decisions. Our peptides are sold for in-vitro research and laboratory use only.