SS-31 (Elamipretide) — Mitochondria-Targeted Cardiolipin Peptide
A cell-permeable tetrapeptide (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) that concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, studied for its ability to stabilize cardiolipin and optimize electron transport chain function.
Reconstituted for research use • Per research protocol
Compound Details
Mechanism of Action
SS-31 is a cell-permeable peptide that rapidly crosses membranes without requiring active transport or mitochondrial membrane potential. Once inside mitochondria, it binds selectively to cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane through electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions between its alternating aromatic-cationic motif and cardiolipin's anionic headgroups. This binding stabilizes cardiolipin microdomains, prevents pathological cardiolipin peroxidation, maintains cytochrome c in its native electron carrier conformation, and optimizes electron transfer through complexes III and IV of the respiratory chain.
Overview
SS-31, also known as Elamipretide and formerly designated Bendavia, is a synthetic tetrapeptide with the sequence D-Arg-2',6'-dimethyltyrosine-Lys-Phe-NH2. It belongs to the Szeto-Schiller (SS) peptide family, developed by Dr. Hazel Szeto and Dr. Peter Bhatt at Weill Cornell Medical College. SS-31 is one of the most extensively researched mitochondria-targeted compounds in peptide science, with studies spanning heart failure, renal disease, skeletal muscle dysfunction, and age-related mitochondrial decline. Unlike most mitochondria-targeted molecules that rely on charge-driven accumulation in the matrix, SS-31 selectively concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) where it binds to cardiolipin, a phospholipid unique to mitochondria that plays a critical structural role in cristae organization and electron transport chain supercomplex assembly. By stabilizing cardiolipin-cytochrome c interactions, SS-31 prevents cytochrome c from converting into a peroxidase, thereby preserving its electron carrier function and reducing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production at the source. Preclinical research has demonstrated that SS-31 restores mitochondrial bioenergetics in aged tissues, improves ATP synthesis, reduces oxidative damage, and attenuates mitochondrial dysfunction associated with ischemia-reperfusion injury. Clinical trials have evaluated elamipretide in primary mitochondrial myopathy, Barth syndrome, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, and age-related macular degeneration. PharmaOrder supplies COA-verified SS-31 for mitochondrial research. For research use only. Not intended for human consumption.
Pricing
Volume pricing available — create an account to see tiered rates.
Purity & Testing
COA available. Third-party testing by Finnrick Analytical.
Certificates of Analysis (COA) are available in your account. Third-party testing is conducted to verify identity, purity, and potency.
Storage & Handling
Store lyophilized at -20°C. Reconstituted: 2-8°C, use within 28 days. Protect from light.
Shipping
Ships worldwide from 6 distribution centers via USPS Ground Advantage
Available for direct research purchase
Research-use-only products are sold strictly for laboratory and research purposes. By purchasing, you acknowledge that these products are not intended for human or veterinary use, and you agree to PharmaOrder's RUO terms of service.
Published Research
Selected peer-reviewed studies referenced in this product overview.
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