SS-31 (Elamipretide)

Mitochondrial-Targeted Peptide · Cardiolipin Protector

Overview

SS-31 (Elamipretide) is an aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide that selectively binds to cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, preventing lipid peroxidation and optimizing electron transport chain function for enhanced cellular energy production.

Selectively binds to cardiolipin in inner mitochondrial membrane, preventing lipid peroxidation and optimizing electron transport chain function. This improves ATP production and reduces oxidative damage at the mitochondrial level.

Optimizes electron transport chain function for improved cellular energy.

Prevents cardiolipin peroxidation and reduces mitochondrial oxidative damage.

Significant improvements in 6-minute walk test and fatigue scores in PMM patients.

Reduces cardiac injury markers and improves mitochondrial function in surgical patients.

Mechanism

Optimizes electron transport chain function for improved cellular energy.

Research areas

SS-31 (Elamipretide) is an aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide that selectively binds to cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, preventing lipid peroxidation and optimizing electron transport chain function for enhanced cellular energy production.
Selectively binds to cardiolipin in inner mitochondrial membrane, preventing lipid peroxidation and optimizing electron transport chain function. This improves ATP production and reduces oxidative damage at the mitochondrial level.
Optimizes electron transport chain function for improved cellular energy.
Prevents cardiolipin peroxidation and reduces mitochondrial oxidative damage.
Significant improvements in 6-minute walk test and fatigue scores in PMM patients.
Reduces cardiac injury markers and improves mitochondrial function in surgical patients.
Reduces ischemia-reperfusion injury and supports cardiac function.
Enhanced exercise capacity and reduced fatigue.
Reversed age-related decline in muscle function in animal studies.
Neuroprotective effects demonstrated in Alzheimer's models.
Supports overall cellular health through mitochondrial optimization.

Research notes

Excellent safety profile in clinical trials
No significant side effects reported at therapeutic doses
Mild injection site reactions possible
Safe for long-term use based on current data
Severe injection site reactions
Allergic reaction signs (rash, breathing difficulty)
Unusual fatigue or weakness (paradoxical reaction)
Cardiovascular symptoms
Severe headaches or vision changes
Known hypersensitivity to peptides
Pregnancy or breastfeeding (limited data)

References

FAQs

Is SS-31 light sensitive and does it really need amber vials?

Yes, SS-31 is photosensitive and requires light protection. Store reconstituted solutions in amber vials or dark containers at 2-8°C. The peptide's aromatic-cationic structure is vulnerable to photodegradation, which can compromise its mitochondrial-binding effectiveness.

How quickly does SS-31 improve exercise tolerance?

Initial improvements in energy and fatigue appear within 1-3 days, with better exercise endurance noticed by week 1-2. Peak exercise capacity improvements typically develop over 4-8 weeks as mitochondrial ATP production optimizes.

Can SS-31 be used with NAD+ boosters and will they interact?

Yes, SS-31 and NAD+ are synergistic because both target mitochondrial function through complementary mechanisms - SS-31 directly protects cardiolipin while NAD+ supports electron transport chain enzymes. Combining them may enhance energy production more than either alone.

What's the difference between clinical-grade SS-31 (40mg daily) and athletic performance doses?

Athletic protocols use 10-20mg daily, while clinical trials for mitochondrial disease used 40mg daily. The higher clinical dose targets more significant mitochondrial dysfunction; athletic users typically achieve performance benefits at lower doses with less potential for excessive metabolic stimulation.