SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a first-in-class mitochondrial-targeting tetrapeptide engineered to stabilize the inner mitochondrial membrane and optimize cellular bioenergetics.

Peptide Classification and Description

SS-31 is a synthetic tetrapeptide (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) that belongs to the Szeto-Schiller (SS) family of peptides. It is uniquely characterized by its ability to selectively target and bind to cardiolipin, a phospholipid found exclusively on the inner mitochondrial membrane. This binding stabilizes the mitochondrial structure, facilitating efficient electron transport and reducing the pathological production of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Targets, Effects, and Explored Roles

Category	SS-31 Research Details
Primary Targets	Cardiolipin within the inner mitochondrial membrane.
Potential Effects	Stabilized mitochondrial cristae, reduced electron leak, and enhanced ATP production efficiency.
Explored Roles	Widely used to probe mitochondrial structure–function coupling, oxidative stress, and bioenergetics in various disease models.

Core Mechanism and Function

Peptide	Mechanism of Action	Key Biological Function
SS-31	Binds to cardiolipin to prevent its peroxidation and maintain membrane curvature.	Restores mitochondrial integrity under stress and minimizes "electron leak" to suppress ROS generation.

Clinical Potential

While strictly designated for research use, the mitochondrial-stabilizing properties of SS-31 are a central focus in numerous investigational areas:

Nephrology Research: Investigating its role in protecting renal mitochondria from ischemia-reperfusion injury and chronic kidney dysfunction.
Cardiovascular Science: Studying the impact of mitochondrial stabilization on heart failure models and myocardial infarction recovery.
Ophthalmology: Researching its potential to protect retinal pigment epithelial cells in models of age-related macular degeneration.
Neurodegenerative Studies: Exploring how mitochondrial optimization affects the progression of primary mitochondrial myopathies and cognitive decline.

Product Specifications

Specification	Details
Form	Lyophilized powder in 3 mL glass vial
Appearance	Solid, white powder
Chemical Formula	C32H49N9O5
PubChem CID	11764619
CAS Number	736992-21-5
Molecular Weight	~639.8 g/mol
Storage	Store at ≤ -20°C for long-term stability

Strictly RUO: This product is for Research Use Only. Bodily introduction into humans or animals is strictly forbidden.

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