1. What is SS-31?
SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, is a synthetic mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide designed to support mitochondrial function. It selectively associates with cardiolipin, a phospholipid unique to the inner mitochondrial membrane, and has been studied for its ability to stabilize mitochondrial structure, reduce oxidative stress, and influence ATP production. Research interest has focused on its role in models of aging, mitochondrial biology, and organ function 【1】.
2. SS-31 Structure
Sequence: D-Arg-Tyr(2,6-diMe)-Lys-Phe
Molecular Formula: C₃₂H₄₉N₉O₅
Molecular Weight: 639.8 g/mol
PubChem CID: 11764719
CAS Number: 736992-21-5
Synonyms: elamipretide, MTP-131,Bendavia
3. SS-31 Research
Research Overview
SS-31 is a mitochondria-targeted peptide investigated for its ability to interact with cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Studies suggest this interaction may support electron transport chain stability, ATP synthesis efficiency, and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation 【2】.
Mechanism of Action (Research Context)
l Cardiolipin Binding: Stabilizes mitochondrial inner membrane and ETC complexes.
l ATP Support: Associated with improved oxidative phosphorylation efficiency under stress.
l Oxidative Stress Reduction: Reported to lower ROS burden in mitochondrial studies.
l Apoptotic Pathway Modulation: Investigated for protection against mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis.
l Mitochondrial Dynamics: Suggested role in maintaining balance between fission and fusion processes.
Research Areas of Interest
l 🧠 Neuroprotection: Studied in models of neuronal energy metabolism and oxidative stress.
l ❤️ Cardiovascular Research: Investigated in ischemia-reperfusion injury models and cardiac bioenergetics studies 【3】.
l 👁 Ophthalmic Research: Explored in retinal models, including those related to mitochondrial-dependent tissues.
l 💪 Muscle & Aging Models: Studied for effects on skeletal muscle mitochondrial efficiency and fatigue resistance 【4】.
✅ Why Consider SS-31 (Research Context)?
l 🔬 Direct mitochondrial targeting via cardiolipin interaction
l 🛡️ Studied for membrane stabilization and oxidative stress reduction
l 🧠 Investigated in neuroenergetics and brain mitochondrial models
l ❤️ Explored in cardiac ischemia-reperfusion and bioenergetic studies
l 👁 Applied in retinal and ocular mitochondrial research
l 🧬 Considered a leading tool in mitochondrial medicine research
4. Future SS-31 Research
A. Expanded Research Areas
l Neurodegeneration: Studies on Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS models investigating mitochondrial preservation.
l Ischemia & Organ Stress: Explored in preclinical models of heart, kidney, and liver reperfusion injury.
l Genetic Disorders: Research in rare mitochondrial diseases such as LHON and Barth syndrome.
l Immunometabolism: Studied for effects on inflammatory signaling pathways such as NLRP3 and T-cell mitochondrial metabolism.
B. Mechanistic Studies
l Cryo-EM analysis of SS-31 binding sites on cardiolipin.
l Adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) efficiency studies.
l Mitochondria-ER interaction (MAMs) in calcium and lipid regulation.
C. Delivery Innovations
l Research into nanocarriers, liposomal encapsulation, and prodrug strategies to improve pharmacokinetics.
l Biomarker-guided dosing explored in experimental settings (e.g., ATPmax, lactate thresholds).
l Combination studies with NAD⁺ precursors, PQQ, and other mitochondrial modulators.
5. Application Area
SS-31 is primarily studied in:
l 🧪 Mitochondrial biology and bioenergetics research
l 🧠 Neuropharmacology and brain energy metabolism models
l ❤️ Cardiac ischemia-reperfusion and bioenergetic studies
l 👁 Retinal and ocular mitochondrial investigations
l 💪 Skeletal muscle and aging research models
⚠ Disclaimer
ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro studies only. In-vitro studies (Latin: in glass) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat, or cure any medical condition, ailment, or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.
