
SS-31
Szeto-Schiller Peptide — Mitochondrial Protector
Molecular Data
- Formula
- C26H41N7O6
- Molecular Weight
- 551.65 g/mol
- Sequence
- D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2
01
Overview
SS-31 (Szeto-Schiller Peptide 31, also known as Elamipretide or MTP-131) is a tetrapeptide that selectively targets and accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane. It binds to cardiolipin, a phospholipid critical for mitochondrial structure and energy production, and is being investigated clinically for heart failure, age-related macular degeneration, and multiple other conditions.
02
Mechanism of Action
SS-31 concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane (100-1000× plasma levels) through electrostatic interactions. It binds cardiolipin and prevents its peroxidation, preserving cristae morphology and the organization of respiratory chain supercomplexes. This restores electron flow efficiency and reduces electron leak that generates damaging superoxide radicals.
03
Research Highlights
Phase II clinical trials (PROGRESS-HF) for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Aging muscle research at University of Washington shows restoration of mitochondrial function in old mice
Ischemia-reperfusion studies demonstrate significant protection of cardiac and renal tissue
04
Dosage
Administration & Timing
Subcutaneous (SC) injection into abdominal or gluteal subcutaneous tissue or IV. Research protocols use once or twice daily SC; IV infusion documented in cardiac research.
Dosage Guidelines
Cycle Length
2–8 weeks; chronic protocols extend to 12 weeks.
05
Reconstitution
Solvent
Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% benzyl alcohol)
Volume
2 mL added to a 20 mg vial
Concentration
10 mg/mL
Storage
Lyophilized powder: store at -20 °C long-term. Reconstituted: refrigerate 2–8 °C, use within 30 days.
Notes
SS-31 (Elamipretide) targets cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane. IV administration is reserved for clinical-trial settings.
Research Reference Only
Dosage and reconstitution values reflect commonly cited ranges from published research literature and are presented for educational and research reference only. This is not medical advice or a dosing recommendation. HEXAGEN does not endorse human use of any compound. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Research Disclaimer
SS-31 is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
Related Compounds
View AllSS-31 Knowledge Graph
Explore how SS-31 connects to mechanisms, research goals, related compounds, research stacks, and scientific references. Drag nodes, zoom, and filter by type.
No nodes match the active filters.
SS-31 — Common Research Questions
What is SS-31?
SS-31 (Szeto-Schiller Peptide 31, also known as Elamipretide or MTP-131) is a tetrapeptide that selectively targets and accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane. It binds to cardiolipin, a phos... SS-31 belongs to the Anti Aging research category and is studied for its szeto-schiller peptide — mitochondrial protector.
How does SS-31 work?
SS-31 concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane (100-1000× plasma levels) through electrostatic interactions. It binds cardiolipin and prevents its peroxidation, preserving cristae morphology and the organization of respiratory chain supercomplexes. This restores electron flow efficiency and reduces electron leak that generates damaging superoxide radicals.
What are the key research benefits of SS-31?
Mitochondrial inner membrane stabilization. Cardiolipin protection and electron transport chain optimization. Reduction of mitochondrial ROS production. ATP production enhancement. Protection against ischemia-reperfusion injury. Age-related muscle and organ function improvement.
What is the molecular structure of SS-31?
SS-31 has the molecular formula C26H41N7O6 and a molecular weight of 551.65 g/mol. Its amino acid sequence is D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2. This structural information is important for researchers studying receptor binding and pharmacokinetics.
What does the research say about SS-31?
Phase II clinical trials (PROGRESS-HF) for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction Aging muscle research at University of Washington shows restoration of mitochondrial function in old mice Ischemia-reperfusion studies demonstrate significant protection of cardiac and renal tissue These findings are based on preclinical and clinical research. SS-31 is a research compound and these studies do not constitute medical advice.
Is SS-31 FDA approved?
No. SS-31 is not FDA-approved for any indication. It is a research chemical studied in preclinical and early clinical research. These compounds are not approved for human therapeutic use and should only be studied in appropriate research settings.
What category does SS-31 belong to?
SS-31 belongs to the Anti Aging category, which focuses on peptides researched for their telomere-supporting, mitochondrial-protective, and senolytic properties aligned with healthy longevity science. You can explore more compounds in this category on the Anti Aging pillar page.
Related Articles
Epitalon: Telomerase Activation and Lifespan Research
35 years of Russian research on Epitalon's telomere-elongating effects and the landmark gerontology studies.
SS-31 (Elamipretide): Mitochondrial Cardiolipin Protection
How SS-31 stabilizes the inner mitochondrial membrane and its Phase II heart failure trial data.
MOTS-c: The Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide
USC research on MOTS-c's role in insulin sensitivity, metabolic homeostasis, and exercise mimetic effects.
Scientific References
Birk et al. — "Elamipretide: mitochondrial cardiolipin protectant" (JACC, 2014)
PROGRESS-HF Phase II trial for heart failure, 2020
Univ. of Washington — Aging muscle mitochondrial restoration, 2016
Phase II clinical trials (PROGRESS-HF) for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Aging muscle research at University of Washington shows restoration of mitochondrial function in old mice
Ischemia-reperfusion studies demonstrate significant protection of cardiac and renal tissue



