SS-31
A mitochondria-targeted peptide studied for its effects on cardiolipin stabilization and mitochondrial function.
Overview
SS-31 is a small mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide developed by researchers studying mitochondrial dysfunction in aging and disease. Its clinical-development name, elamipretide, has been studied in registered clinical trials for several conditions linked to mitochondrial impairment, making it one of the more clinically advanced compounds in this library’s longevity category.
Mechanism of Action
SS-31 selectively concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it’s studied for its interaction with cardiolipin, a phospholipid essential to the structure and function of the electron transport chain. By stabilizing cardiolipin, SS-31 has been studied for its effects on mitochondrial ATP production and reduction of reactive oxygen species, particularly in tissues with high energy demand like heart and skeletal muscle.
Cited Research
Cardiolipin stabilization
Characterized SS-31’s selective binding to cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
Clinical trials (elamipretide)
Studied in human trials for conditions involving mitochondrial dysfunction, including certain cardiac and muscular disorders.
Age-related mitochondrial decline
Examined in animal models for effects on mitochondrial function decline associated with aging.
This is a summary, not an exhaustive review. Search the primary literature yourself: SS-31 on PubMed →
Safety & Handling
The research-grade SS-31 sold by Stack Science should be handled only by qualified personnel in a laboratory setting, stored and reconstituted per its Certificate of Analysis, and kept refrigerated once reconstituted. It is not FDA-approved and is not intended for human use in this form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SS-31 FDA approved?
No, not currently. It has been studied in registered clinical trials under the name elamipretide, but the research-grade material sold here is a separate, unapproved product for laboratory use only.
How is SS-31 different from MOTS-c?
Both are mitochondria-focused research peptides, but SS-31 is a synthetic tetrapeptide that stabilizes cardiolipin in the mitochondrial membrane, while MOTS-c is a naturally occurring mitochondrial-DNA-encoded peptide that acts on nuclear gene expression.
How should it be stored?
Keep the lyophilized powder refrigerated or frozen prior to reconstitution. Once reconstituted, keep refrigerated and use within the timeframe on its Certificate of Analysis.
Is this page medical advice?
No. This page summarizes published literature for research and educational context only. It does not recommend a dose, protocol, or use in humans or animals outside a laboratory setting.
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