SS-31 Research Overview
An overview of SS-31 (elamipretide), a mitochondria-targeted peptide, and its role in mitochondrial research.
Scientific background / literature overview only. Discussion of published research does not describe the intended use of Novex Peptide products.
Introduction
> **Research Context Notice** — This article summarises published scientific literature for educational and research-reference purposes only. Discussion of experimental, preclinical or clinical findings does not represent a permitted use of Novex Peptide products. Products supplied by Novex Peptide are intended exclusively for in-vitro laboratory research and are not intended for human or animal administration.
SS-31 (also known as elamipretide) is a synthetic tetrapeptide designed to target mitochondria. It has been studied for its effects on mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and cellular energy production in animal and in vitro models.
Mechanism of Action
Mitochondrial Targeting
SS-31 penetrates the mitochondrial membrane and accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it interacts with cardiolipin, a phospholipid unique to mitochondria.
Cardiolipin Stabilisation
By binding to cardiolipin, SS-31 helps stabilise the inner mitochondrial membrane structure, which is essential for the proper function of the electron transport chain.
Oxidative Stress Reduction
SS-31 has been shown to reduce mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and protect against oxidative damage in cell culture and animal studies.
Current Research
Cardiac Research
Animal studies have investigated SS-31's effects on cardiac function in models of heart failure, ischaemia-reperfusion injury, and cardiac ageing.
Renal Research
Research has explored SS-31's effects on kidney function in models of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease.
Metabolic Research
Studies have investigated SS-31's effects on mitochondrial bioenergetics, ATP production, and metabolic function in various tissue models.
Ophthalmic Research
Some research has explored SS-31's effects on retinal mitochondrial function in animal models of eye disease.
Chemical Properties
Reference values describe the named molecular form in [PubChem](https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/11764719). Salt, counterion, hydration and formulation may change the mass of supplied material. Confirm the supplied form before quantitative use.
Storage Considerations
Follow the supported product label and compound-specific laboratory protocol. Solution stability depends on the exact material, solvent, concentration and storage conditions; there is no universal refrigerated shelf life or freezing protocol. Obtain missing stability information before preparation. Where validated, use aliquots to minimise repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Testing Methods
SS-31 batches should be verified by:
Research Limitations
SS-31 is supplied for in-vitro laboratory research only. Published preclinical literature includes in-vivo animal studies. References to such studies are provided solely as scientific background and do not indicate that Novex Peptide products are supplied for animal administration. On 19 September 2025, the US FDA granted accelerated approval to Forzinity (elamipretide) for Barth syndrome in patients weighing at least 30 kg. This approval concerns that specific medicine and indication; it does not approve Novex research materials or authorise their administration. See the [FDA announcement](https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-grants-accelerated-approval-first-treatment-barth-syndrome). No therapeutic or dosing claims are made for Novex products.
References
- 1.Szeto HH. Mitochondria-Targeted Peptide. AAPS J. 2006;8(2):E277-E283.
- 2.Birk AV, et al. SS-31 and Mitochondrial Function. J Mol Cell Cardiol. 2013;60:107-115.
- 3.Dai W, et al. SS-31 and Cardiac Ischaemia. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 2014;63(5):419-426.
Research use only. This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute advice for any application involving human use. No medical claims are made.
