SS-31
Also known as: Elamipretide, Bendavia, MTP-131
Overview
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a synthetic aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide designed specifically to target and protect mitochondria. Its structure enables rapid penetration of mitochondrial membranes and selective binding to cardiolipin, the unique phospholipid of the inner mitochondrial membrane. SS-31 has demonstrated the extraordinary ability to reverse pre-existing cardiac aging dysfunction in old mice after 8 weeks of treatment, representing one of the most compelling demonstrations of mitochondria-targeted anti-aging therapy.
Mechanism of Action
SS-31 penetrates mitochondrial membranes driven by the negative surface charge and selectively binds cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane. This binding: (1) restores cristae curvature and function of electron transport chain complexes; (2) improves electron carrier function of cytochrome c while reducing its peroxidase activity; (3) reduces proton leak and improves respiratory control ratio; (4) decreases mitochondrial ROS production by preventing electron leak from the ETC; (5) inhibits mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) formation; (6) reverses myofilament protein hypo-phosphorylation in aged hearts.
Potential Benefits
- Reverses cardiac diastolic dysfunction in aged mice after 8-week treatment
- Normalizes age-related increase in mitochondrial proton leak
- Reduces mitochondrial ROS production and oxidative protein damage
- Improves mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP production
- Ongoing clinical trials for heart failure, primary mitochondrial myopathy
- Muscle recovery and fatigue resistance in mitochondria-rich tissue
- Potential benefits in retinal and neural mitochondrial disease
Dosage Protocols
The following reflects doses used in published research studies. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| Typical Range | 1-5 mg/day |
| Beginner | 1 mg/day subcutaneously |
| Intermediate | 2-3 mg/day |
| Advanced | 5 mg/day; clinical trials used 0.05-0.25 mg/kg/hour IV infusion |
| Cycle Duration | 4-8 weeks |
| Cycle Off | 4 weeks |
SS-31 (Elamipretide) has been tested in human clinical trials for heart failure and primary mitochondrial myopathy. IV infusion is used clinically; subcutaneous is more practical for research purposes. Parenteral administration required.
Use our Reconstitution Calculator to determine exact syringe units for your protocol.
Routes of Administration
Subcutaneous Injection High — systemic distribution
Most common administration route for research peptides. Inject into abdominal fat, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate sites. standard research dose.
Intramuscular Injection High — with slightly faster onset than SC
Alternative route when deeper delivery or faster absorption is desired. Less commonly used than SC for most research peptides.
Read our full Routes of Administration Guide for detailed comparison of all delivery methods.
Stacking Protocols
Popular research stacks involving SS-31:
Longevity Stack
SS-31 combined with telomere-supporting Epithalon and NAD+ precursors for broad longevity protocol. Cycled over 10-20 day blocks.
Explore our complete Peptide Stacking Guide for more combinations and safety considerations.
Reconstitution
| Typical Vial Size | 5mg, 10mg |
|---|---|
| BAC Water | 1-2ml per 5mg vial |
| Storage | Refrigerate at 2-8°C after reconstitution |
| Shelf Life | 28 days refrigerated |
Need exact syringe measurements?
Amino Acid Sequence
D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2 (aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide)
Side Effects & Safety
- Generally well-tolerated in clinical studies
- Mild injection site reactions
- Transient nausea in some subjects
- No serious cardiovascular adverse events at therapeutic doses
Safety & Contraindications
This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide.
Pregnancy / Lactation
Bleeding Disorders
Active Skin Infection at Injection Site
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-Life | ~2-4 hours (plasma); accumulates in mitochondria with longer tissue residence |
|---|---|
| Storage | Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C (long-term) or 2-8°C (short-term, under 30 days). Reconstituted: refrigerate at 2-8°C and use within 28-30 days. Protect from light. Do not freeze reconstituted solution. |
Synergistic Compounds
The following compounds have been studied alongside SS-31 for potential complementary or synergistic effects:
Learn More
References & Further Reading
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