SS-31

Overview

SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a synthetic cell-permeable tetrapeptide that selectively targets the inner mitochondrial membrane. Developed by Dr. Hazel Szeto at Weill Cornell Medicine, SS-31 is a member of the Szeto-Schiller (SS) peptide family designed to concentrate in mitochondria and interact with cardiolipin, a phospholipid critical for electron transport chain function.

Research Summary

SS-31 has been studied in preclinical models of mitochondrial dysfunction, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and age-related cellular decline. Research in rodent and large animal models has examined its effects on mitochondrial bioenergetics, reactive oxygen species production, and cellular ATP generation. Studies have investigated its cardioprotective, renoprotective, and neuroprotective properties in ischemic models. Clinical trials (under the name Elamipretide) have been conducted for Barth syndrome, primary mitochondrial myopathy, and heart failure, though these are distinct from the research-grade peptide.

Proposed Mechanism of Action

SS-31 concentrates at the inner mitochondrial membrane where it selectively binds cardiolipin. This interaction optimizes the organization of electron transport chain complexes, reduces electron leak, improves ATP synthesis efficiency, and decreases mitochondrial ROS production. Its alternating aromatic-cationic motif enables mitochondrial targeting without dependence on mitochondrial membrane potential.

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Published Research References

References are provided for informational purposes. PeptiNox does not endorse or validate the conclusions of cited studies. All listed research pertains to preclinical or in vitro investigations unless otherwise noted.