SS-31 concentrates 1000× in IMM → binds cardiolipin → stabilises mitochondrial cristae architecture → preserves Complex I-IV electron transport chain efficiency
ROS REDUCTION
Cardiolipin stabilisation → less electron leak at Complex I/III → reduced superoxide generation → mitochondrial ROS ↓
ATP SYNTHESIS
Preserved ETC efficiency + cristae structure → improved ATP synthase coupling → ATP production ↑ in dysfunctional mitochondria
Research Questions Answered
What is SS-31?
SS-31 (Elamipretide, also known as MTP-131 or Bendavia) is a synthetic tetrapeptide (D-Arg-2′6′-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) designed to concentrate specifically at the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) and bind cardiolipin — the signature phospholipid of the IMM. It was developed by Hazel Szeto and Peter Schiller (SS = Szeto-Schiller). By stabilising cardiolipin and mitochondrial cristae structure, SS-31 restores electron transport chain efficiency, reduces ROS, and improves ATP synthesis in dysfunctional mitochondria.
How does SS-31 work?
SS-31 works via cardiolipin binding: its alternating cationic/aromatic structure drives 1,000× concentration at the inner mitochondrial membrane. Cardiolipin binding stabilises cristae structure, which maintains the spatial organisation of Complex I–IV supercomplexes needed for efficient electron transfer. This prevents electron leak (source of superoxide), reduces ROS generation, and improves ATP synthase coupling — restoring bioenergetic function in injured or aged mitochondria without being an antioxidant scavenger.
What is SS-31 used for in research?
SS-31 research applications: heart failure research (Phase 2/3 MMAD trial data — preserved ejection fraction HF), ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/R) models, mitochondrial disease models (MELAS, Barth syndrome), aging research (mitochondrial dysfunction in sarcopenia), kidney protection (cisplatin nephrotoxicity, AKI models), neurodegenerative disease models (Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s — mitochondrial components), and comparative mitochondrial peptide research vs MOTS-c and Humanin.
Does SS-31 have clinical trial data?
Yes — Elamipretide (SS-31) has the most advanced clinical trial data of any mitochondria-targeted peptide. Key trials: MMAD (heart failure with reduced ejection fraction) — Phase 2, positive results. PROGRESS-HF (HFpEF) — Phase 2/3. Barth syndrome (TAZPOWER) — Phase 2, statistically significant 6MWT improvement. Multiple ongoing trials in HF, mitochondrial myopathy, and aging frailty. SS-31 is the most clinically advanced mitochondrial protection research compound available from QSC.
Where can I buy SS-31 for research?
Research-grade SS-31 (Elamipretide) is available from QSC (qscpeptide.com) at ≥99% HPLC purity with Janoshik COA. US Domestic Warehouse: 2–4 business day delivery. All products sold strictly for in vitro laboratory research only.
What is the difference between SS-31 and MOTS-c?
SS-31: cardiolipin-binding physical mitochondrial protector — stabilises structure, reduces ROS, improves ATP. Works directly at the IMM regardless of metabolic state. MOTS-c: mitochondrial-derived peptide that activates AMPK signalling — improves metabolic flexibility, glucose uptake, mitochondrial biogenesis. Complementary mechanisms: SS-31 protects mitochondrial structure; MOTS-c improves metabolic signalling. Often researched together for comprehensive mitochondrial research coverage.
What is cardiolipin?
Cardiolipin (CL) is a unique phospholipid almost exclusively found in the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM). It has four fatty acid chains (unusual) and plays a critical structural role: anchoring ETC complexes I–IV into supercomplexes (respirasomes), maintaining cristae curvature, and supporting ATP synthase oligomerisation. Cardiolipin is destroyed by oxidative stress and is depleted in heart failure, ischemia, and aging — making it a primary target for mitochondrial protection research.
What purity should research-grade SS-31 be?
Research-grade SS-31 should be ≥99% HPLC purity with MS confirmation. SS-31 contains non-natural amino acids (D-Arg, 2′6′-Dmt) — mass spectrometry is essential to confirm these modifications are correctly incorporated. QSC provides Janoshik-verified COAs for all SS-31 batches.
How is SS-31 stored?
Lyophilised SS-31: store at −20°C. Reconstituted: store at 4°C, use within 28 days. Reconstitute with sterile/bacteriostatic water. Protect from light. As a tetrapeptide with non-natural amino acid modifications, SS-31 has good stability in lyophilised form but should be stored correctly.
What is the SS-31 dose in research?
Animal model research has used 0.1–10 mg/kg subcutaneously. The human Barth syndrome trial (TAZPOWER) used 40 mg subcutaneously daily. In vitro research protocols should reference compound-specific published literature for relevant concentration ranges. QSC provides dosing guidance resources with all SS-31 orders.
Where to Buy Research-Grade SS-31
≥99% HPLC · Janoshik COA · US Domestic 2–4 Days · Research Use Only
