SS-31

SS-31 (Elamipretide)

Primary Function: Mitochondrial protection, oxidative stress reduction, energy metabolism support
Research Use: Age-related mitochondrial dysfunction, cardiac ischemia, neurodegeneration
Molecular Formula: C49H90N10O16S2
CAS Number: 897016-82-9
Synonyms: Elamipretide, Bendavia, Szeto–Schiller peptide 31

Description:
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a cell-permeable tetrapeptide that selectively targets and binds to cardiolipin within the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing mitochondrial structure and function. It plays a pivotal role in reducing oxidative damage, improving ATP production, and protecting tissues from ischemia and aging-related mitochondrial decline. SS-31 is widely researched in models of cardiomyopathy, neurodegeneration, muscle wasting, and metabolic syndromes.

Mechanism of Action:

• Binds to cardiolipin to stabilize mitochondrial membranes
• Reduces mitochondrial ROS (reactive oxygen species) production
• Enhances ATP synthesis and mitochondrial biogenesis
• Prevents cytochrome c release and apoptosis
• Preserves mitochondrial morphology and electron transport chain function

Key Research Areas:

• Mitochondrial dysfunction (aging, metabolic, and genetic)
• Heart failure, ischemia-reperfusion injury
• Age-related muscle wasting (sarcopenia)
• Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and optic neuropathies
• Kidney and liver protection under oxidative stress

History of Discovery:
SS-31 was developed by Dr. Hazel H. Szeto and Dr. Peter W. Schiller, originally at Weill Cornell Medical College. The peptide was designed to penetrate mitochondria independently of membrane potential and has shown promise in numerous preclinical and human studies for conditions linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. It was later commercialized under the name Elamipretide by Stealth BioTherapeutics.

Case Studies:

1. Improved Cardiac Function in Heart Failure (2015, JACC: Basic Transl Sci): SS-31 improved left ventricular function and reduced mitochondrial swelling in heart failure models. [JACC Basic Transl Sci. 2015;1(3):178–189.]
2. Visual Restoration in Mitochondrial Optic Neuropathy (2020, JAMA Ophthalmol): Elamipretide improved photoreceptor response in patients with inherited mitochondrial disease. [JAMA Ophthalmol. 2020;138(3):257–267.]
3. Mitochondrial Rescue in Aged Muscle (2011, Aging Cell): SS-31 restored mitochondrial function, increased endurance, and reduced fatigue in elderly mice. [Aging Cell. 2011;10(6):835–848.]

Packaging Information:

• Form: Lyophilized powder
• Purity: ≥ 99%
• For research use only. Not for human or veterinary use.