SS-31 (Elamipretide)

What is SS-31 (Elamipretide)?

SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, is a mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide that selectively binds cardiolipin — a lipid unique to the inner mitochondrial membrane.

By stabilizing mitochondrial cristae architecture and improving electron-transport chain efficiency, SS-31 enhances ATP production and reduces oxidative stress at its source.

It has been evaluated in multiple clinical and translational studies targeting heart failure, sarcopenia and other conditions of mitochondrial dysfunction.

How does SS-31 work?

SS-31 selectively binds cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane without altering membrane potential, preserving supercomplex assembly of the electron transport chain.

This stabilization reduces electron leak (which produces reactive oxygen species) while increasing coupling efficiency — meaning more ATP is produced per unit of oxygen consumed.

The result is improved bioenergetic output and reduced oxidative damage, particularly in high-energy tissues like heart and skeletal muscle.

Research highlights

• Restores mitochondrial cristae architecture and ATP output

• Reduces ROS leak from Complex I and III

• Improves exercise capacity in aged animal models

• Studied in heart failure, sarcopenia and renal mitochondrial disease

• Improves mitochondrial-function biomarkers without major adverse effects

Dosing reference (research use)

Common research dosing: 2.5 mg subcutaneously daily for 2–4 week cycles, followed by a 4-week pause.

1 vial = 10 mg. At 2.5 mg/day, a vial covers ~4 days.

Reported side-effect signals

Mild injection-site discomfort

Temporary fatigue during adaptation phase

Mild headache

Disclaimer — research use only

For in-vitro research use only. Not for human or veterinary consumption.