SS-31

Overview

SS-31 (elamipretide) is a synthetic tetrapeptide (four amino acids) specifically designed to concentrate inside mitochondria and bind to cardiolipin, a lipid unique to the inner mitochondrial membrane.

Proposed Mechanism

Binds cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing cristae structure and reducing reactive oxygen species production. Studied in cardiac, renal, and age-related mitochondrial dysfunction models.

Research Context

Because cardiolipin is central to how the inner mitochondrial membrane maintains its folded structure (cristae), research on SS-31 has focused on stabilizing that structure and reducing the production of reactive oxygen species — byproducts of mitochondrial activity implicated in cellular aging and dysfunction.

Evidence Status — Well-documented

Has advanced through human clinical trials for specific mitochondrial disease indications.

SS-31 is one of the more clinically advanced compounds in this index: it has progressed through human clinical trials for specific mitochondrial disease indications. That trial history reflects real, registered human research, though it remains a research compound for any use outside those specific studied contexts.

Research Use Only

This page is a scientific reference summarizing publicly available research literature. It contains no dosing, administration, or protocol guidance, and nothing here constitutes medical advice. BactoCore does not sell this or any peptide referenced in this index — the only product sold directly is bacteriostatic water. See the Safety section for who should not handle research compounds, and the Research Use Disclaimer for full terms.