SS-31 (Elamipretide)
Also known as: Elamipretide · Bendavia · MTP-131 · Szeto-Schiller 31
A mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide that restores cellular energy production by stabilizing cardiolipin, reversing age-related mitochondrial dysfunction within hours.
Overview
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) that represents one of the most promising compounds in the longevity and anti-aging space. Developed by Dr. Hazel Szeto and Dr. Peter Schiller, SS-31 selectively concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane at over 1000-fold higher concentration than the surrounding cytoplasm, where it binds to cardiolipin — a phospholipid unique to mitochondria that is essential for the proper function of the electron transport chain.
As we age, cardiolipin becomes oxidized and damaged, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, reduced ATP output, and ultimately cellular senescence and organ decline. SS-31 stabilizes cardiolipin, restoring optimal electron transport chain function, reducing ROS production, and improving ATP synthesis. In preclinical studies, SS-31 has demonstrated remarkable age-reversal effects: it restored mitochondrial function in aged mice to levels comparable to young animals within hours of administration, reversed age-related cardiac dysfunction, improved skeletal muscle performance, protected against kidney injury, and enhanced cognitive function. In human clinical trials, elamipretide has shown promise in treating primary mitochondrial myopathy (Barth syndrome), heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, and age-related macular degeneration.
The peptide's ability to target the fundamental mechanism of aging — mitochondrial dysfunction — makes it one of the most exciting compounds in longevity research. Unlike antioxidant supplements that scavenge ROS after they are produced, SS-31 prevents excessive ROS generation at the source by optimizing electron transport chain efficiency.
Mechanism of Action
SS-31 is a cell-permeable peptide that rapidly crosses cell membranes and selectively accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane due to its alternating aromatic-cationic structure. It binds specifically to cardiolipin, a unique phospholipid found exclusively in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Cardiolipin is critical for organizing the electron transport chain complexes (I, III, IV) and ATP synthase into supercomplexes — the 'respirasomes' that efficiently transfer electrons and generate ATP. With aging, cardiolipin becomes peroxidized by ROS, disrupting supercomplex assembly and creating a vicious cycle of increased electron leak, more ROS production, more cardiolipin damage, and declining ATP output. SS-31 breaks this cycle by: (1) stabilizing cardiolipin's interaction with cytochrome c, preventing its conversion from an electron carrier to a peroxidase; (2) optimizing electron transfer between Complex III and Complex IV, reducing electron leak; (3) restoring supercomplex assembly and cristae structure; and (4) improving the efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation, generating more ATP per oxygen consumed while producing fewer ROS. The result is a rapid restoration of mitochondrial bioenergetics that can be measured within hours of administration.
Key Benefits
Potential Side Effects
Common Stacks
This peptide is commonly combined with the following compounds for synergistic effects:
Known Interactions
The following interactions have been documented for SS-31 (Elamipretide). Always consult a healthcare professional before combining compounds.
Synergistic (2)
SS-31 targets mitochondrial inner membrane (cardiolipin) while NAD+/NMN provides the coenzyme fuel for mitochondrial energy production. Comprehensive mitochondrial support.
SS-31 stabilizes cardiolipin in mitochondrial membranes while CoQ10 serves as an electron carrier in the ETC. Together they optimize mitochondrial energy production.
Scientific References
Quick Reference
Typical Dose
Research doses: 0.5-5 mg/day subcutaneously. Clinical trial doses: 4mg/day to 40mg/day (subcutaneous or IV). Common research protocol: 1-5 mg/day subcutaneous injection. Start at lower doses.
Frequency
Once daily subcutaneous injection
Route
Subcutaneous injection (also studied IV in clinical settings)
Half-Life
~4 hours (but mitochondrial effects persist much longer due to cardiolipin binding)
Cycle Length
Ongoing daily use in clinical trials (4-24 weeks studied). Research protocols vary from 4-12 weeks.
FDA Status
Investigational — granted Fast Track and Orphan Drug designation by FDA for Barth syndrome. Phase 2/3 trials ongoing for multiple indications. Not yet FDA approved.
Need to calculate dosing?
Use our reconstitution calculator to determine exact syringe measurements.
Open CalculatorThis information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide. Dosing information reflects commonly reported protocols and may not be appropriate for everyone.
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