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.

Novex Peptide Research Team1 August 2026 7 min read

SS-31 elamipretide mitochondrial cardiolipin oxidative stress

Introduction

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

**Sequence:** D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2 (4 amino acids)

**Molecular formula:** C32H43N7O5

**Molecular weight:** 601.7 g/mol

**Modification:** C-terminal amidation, contains non-natural amino acid Dmt (2,6-dimethyltyrosine)

Storage Considerations

Store lyophilised SS-31 at -20°C.

Protect from light and moisture.

Reconstituted solutions should be aliquoted and stored at -20°C.

Testing Methods

SS-31 batches should be verified by:

RP-HPLC for purity (≥98% recommended)

Mass spectrometry for identity confirmation

Research Limitations

SS-31 is supplied for in vitro laboratory research and animal model studies only. While SS-31 has been investigated in clinical trials, findings are experimental and not established clinical facts. No medical, therapeutic, or dosing claims are made. SS-31 is not approved for human therapeutic use by any regulatory authority.

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.