SS-31: Research Overview

SS-31 (also known as Szeto-Schiller peptide 31, or elamipretide) is a synthetic tetrapeptide developed by Hazel Szeto and Peter Schiller at Weill Cornell Medical College. Its unique design — featuring alternating aromatic and cationic residues — allows it to selectively target the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it interacts with cardiolipin, a phospholipid critical to mitochondrial function. SS-31 has been studied extensively in models of mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, representing one of the most targeted mitochondria-protective compounds available for research purposes.

Mechanism of Action

SS-31 works primarily by binding to cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane. Cardiolipin plays an essential structural role in the electron transport chain (ETC), and its peroxidation under oxidative conditions disrupts ATP production and promotes cytochrome c release. By stabilizing cardiolipin and preventing its oxidation, SS-31 research data suggests it helps maintain ETC function and reduces mitochondrial ROS (reactive oxygen species) generation. This cardiolipin-targeting mechanism is distinct from traditional antioxidants, which work systemically rather than at the mitochondrial membrane.

Key Research Areas

• Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Models: SS-31 has been extensively studied in cardiac and renal ischemia-reperfusion models, where mitochondrial dysfunction is a central driver of cell death.
• Heart Failure and Cardiomyopathy Research: Preclinical studies have examined SS-31 in models of heart failure, with data showing improvements in mitochondrial morphology and cardiac function markers.
• Aging and Sarcopenia: Animal studies have investigated SS-31 in age-related muscle loss models, with results suggesting preserved mitochondrial bioenergetics in aged skeletal muscle.
• Neurodegenerative Disease Models: Research has explored SS-31 in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease models, where mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in pathology progression.

Research Applications

SS-31 is used in in vitro and in vivo models focused on mitochondrial biology, oxidative stress, and organ protection from ischemic injury. It is administered systemically in rodent models, often via intravenous or subcutaneous routes. In cell-based assays, it is applied to isolated mitochondria or intact cells subjected to various oxidative stressors. Its cardiolipin-targeting mechanism makes it a reference compound in mitochondrial pharmacology research, where its effects can be compared against conventional antioxidants.

Storage and Handling

SS-31 is supplied as a lyophilized powder for research use. Store at -20°C, protected from light and moisture. Reconstitute with sterile bacteriostatic water under aseptic conditions. After reconstitution, store at 2–8°C and use within 28 days. Do not subject the reconstituted solution to repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

Available from Alpha Peptides US

Alpha Peptides US carries SS-31 50mg for laboratory and preclinical research applications. Suitable for mitochondrial biology, oxidative stress, and organ protection studies.

This product is intended for laboratory research purposes only. It is not approved by the FDA and is not intended for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of any condition.