SS-31 (Elamipretide)
What is SS-31?
SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, is a mitochondria-targeting peptide developed to improve mitochondrial function, reduce oxidative stress, and protect against cellular damage. It is a synthetic tetrapeptide (D-Arg-dimethylTyr-Lys-Phe-NHâ‚‚) that selectively accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it stabilizes cardiolipin, a phospholipid critical for mitochondrial structure and function.
SS-31 is being researched for its potential to treat mitochondrial diseases, cardiovascular conditions, age-related decline, and neurodegenerative disorders. It is recognized for its ability to restore mitochondrial efficiency and protect cells from energy failure.
How It Works (Mechanism of Action)
SS-31 functions at the mitochondrial level by binding to cardiolipin, which stabilizes mitochondrial membranes and enhances electron transport efficiency in the respiratory chain.
Targets Mitochondria Directly
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Selectively accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane without the need for a transporter.
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Preserves mitochondrial membrane integrity and prevents dysfunction.
Stabilizes Cardiolipin
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Prevents oxidation and degradation of cardiolipin, which is essential for electron transport and ATP synthesis.
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Supports optimal function of the electron transport chain (ETC).
Reduces Oxidative Stress
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Decreases production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial-derived free radicals.
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Protects cells from apoptosis and inflammatory damage.
Improves ATP Production
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Enhances cellular energy output, especially in metabolically active tissues like the heart, brain, muscles, and kidneys.
Potential Benefits & Use Cases
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Mitochondrial Dysfunction Support: Therapeutic candidate for mitochondrial myopathies and degenerative diseases.
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Cardioprotection: Shown to improve heart function in models of heart failure, ischemia, and reperfusion injury.
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Neuroprotection: May slow or reverse neurodegenerative processes in diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
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Kidney Health: Demonstrated renoprotective effects in acute and chronic kidney injury.
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Anti-Aging & Longevity: Helps combat age-related mitochondrial decline and supports cellular resilience.
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Muscle Endurance & Recovery: Improves muscle performance, especially in conditions of fatigue or mitochondrial weakness.
Typical Dosage & Administration
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Administration: Subcutaneous or intravenous injection (depending on formulation and use case).
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Dosage:
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2 mg – 10 mg per day, typically administered once daily subcutaneously.
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Dosing varies depending on the condition being addressed and ongoing clinical trial protocols.
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Possible Side Effects
SS-31 has shown an excellent safety profile in both animal and human studies. Reported side effects are rare and typically mild:
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Injection site irritation (redness, swelling, or discomfort).
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Occasional mild headache or nausea.
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No known toxic effects at therapeutic doses.
Other Relevant Details
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SS-31 is not a growth hormone secretagogue or an anabolic peptide; its effects are restorative and mitochondria-specific.
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Often researched in combination with interventions aimed at improving metabolic health, such as NAD+ precursors or exercise mimetics.
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Being evaluated in clinical trials for mitochondrial diseases (e.g., Barth syndrome), heart failure, and age-related muscle dysfunction.
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