SS-31 (10mg)
SS-31 (Elamipretide)
Mitochondria-Targeted Tetrapeptide for Bioenergetic and Redox Research
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a synthetic, mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide developed for advanced research into mitochondrial bioenergetics, oxidative stress, and cellular resilience. Unlike conventional antioxidants that act diffusely within the cytosol, SS-31 is uniquely designed to selectively localize to the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it interacts directly with cardiolipin, a phospholipid essential for electron transport chain integrity and ATP production.
This targeted mechanism allows SS-31 to modulate mitochondrial function at its point of greatest vulnerability, making it a powerful research tool for studying mitochondrial dysfunction across cardiovascular, metabolic, neurodegenerative, and age-related models.
Mechanism of Action
SS-31 exerts its effects through structure-guided mitochondrial targeting, rather than reliance on membrane potential alone.
1. Cardiolipin Binding and Membrane Stabilization
SS-31 selectively associates with cardiolipin molecules within the inner mitochondrial membrane. Cardiolipin plays a critical role in organizing respiratory chain complexes (Complexes I–IV) and maintaining cristae architecture. Under stress conditions, cardiolipin becomes oxidized, destabilizing electron transport and increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.
By binding cardiolipin, SS-31:
-
Stabilizes mitochondrial membrane structure
-
Preserves cristae integrity
-
Supports optimal alignment of electron transport chain complexes
2. Reduction of Mitochondrial ROS at the Source
Rather than acting as a broad free-radical scavenger, SS-31 reduces electron leak within the respiratory chain. This leads to:
-
Decreased superoxide formation
-
Reduced lipid peroxidation of cardiolipin
-
Preservation of mitochondrial redox balance
This distinction is critical, as it allows SS-31 to lower oxidative stress without suppressing physiologic redox signaling, which is essential for normal cellular adaptation.
3. Improved ATP Production and Bioenergetic Efficiency
By stabilizing cardiolipin and improving electron flow through the respiratory chain, SS-31 enhances coupling efficiency between oxidative phosphorylation and ATP synthesis. Research models consistently demonstrate:
-
Improved mitochondrial respiration
-
Increased ATP availability under stress conditions
-
Reduced metabolic inefficiency
4. Anti-Apoptotic Signaling Support
Oxidized cardiolipin is a key trigger for cytochrome c release and mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. SS-31’s protective interaction with cardiolipin helps:
-
Reduce cytochrome c detachment
-
Limit mitochondrial permeability transition
-
Support cellular survival signaling under injury or ischemic stress
Research Applications and Observed Benefits
Acute Research Effects
In short-term and stress-challenge models, SS-31 has been associated with:
-
Rapid stabilization of mitochondrial membranes
-
Improved ATP output during ischemia or oxidative stress
-
Decreased mitochondrial ROS generation
-
Enhanced cellular resilience during acute metabolic demand
These properties make SS-31 particularly valuable in ischemia-reperfusion, acute cardiac stress, and mitochondrial injury research models.
Long-Term Research Observations
In chronic or longitudinal research settings, SS-31 has been studied for its ability to:
-
Preserve mitochondrial structure over time
-
Improve mitochondrial turnover and efficiency
-
Support sustained cellular energy balance
-
Reduce cumulative oxidative damage associated with aging or chronic disease models
Long-term exposure models suggest SS-31 does not act as a stimulant or forced metabolic driver, but rather as a mitochondrial stabilizer, supporting function without inducing compensatory stress responses.
Key Research Advantages
-
Targeted to the inner mitochondrial membrane
-
Acts at the level of cardiolipin rather than systemic antioxidant pathways
-
Supports ATP production while reducing pathological ROS
-
Preserves physiologic redox signaling
-
Suitable for acute injury and chronic degeneration research models
Intended Use Disclaimer
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is intended for research and laboratory use only. Not for human consumption. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.