SS-31

Overview

SS-31 (elamipretide) is a synthetic tetrapeptide developed by Hazel Szeto and Peter Schiller that is specifically designed to concentrate in the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) by electrostatically targeting cardiolipin — a unique phospholipid found almost exclusively in the IMM. By protecting cardiolipin from peroxidation, SS-31 preserves the architecture of electron transport chain complexes and reduces mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation.

SS-31 has been evaluated in Phase 2 clinical trials for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (Bendavia/EMBRACE-STEMI), Barth syndrome, and mitochondrial myopathy. Preclinical studies span an unusually wide range of conditions including ischemia-reperfusion injury, acute kidney injury, neurodegenerative disease, aging, and metabolic syndrome, reflecting the central role mitochondrial dysfunction plays across many diseases.

Mechanism of Action

SS-31 penetrates all cell membranes and concentrates in the IMM through cardiolipin binding (100-fold accumulation). Bound to cardiolipin, it prevents its peroxidation by cytochrome c, maintaining electron transport chain complex organization and reducing electron leak that generates superoxide. It also prevents cristae remodeling and cytochrome c release that triggers apoptosis.

Research Areas

• ●Heart failure and cardiac ischemia
• ●Mitochondrial myopathy and Barth syndrome
• ●Acute kidney injury protection
• ●Aging-associated mitochondrial dysfunction
• ●Neurodegenerative disease models
• ●Skeletal muscle fatigue and atrophy
• ●Cardiolipin biology

Storage & Handling

For Research Use Only. This information is provided for educational and research purposes. SS-31 is not approved for human consumption, veterinary use, or clinical application. All research must be conducted in accordance with applicable laws and institutional guidelines.