SS-31
Concentrates ~1,000-fold in the inner mitochondrial membrane. One of the most clinically advanced mitochondria-targeted peptides.
Mechanism of Action
Bioregulator compound with targeted biochemical activity.
Evidence Chain
SS-31
COMPOUND
1 Research Goal
• Anti-Aging & Longevity
Evidence Strength
9 articles sourced
Knowledge Graph
(10 connections)Research Evidence
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Overview
SS-31 (also known as elamipretide or Bendavia) is a mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) that concentrates approximately 1,000-fold in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Developed by Stealth BioTherapeutics, SS-31 is one of the most clinically advanced mitochondria-targeted peptides, with multiple Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials completed or ongoing across a range of mitochondrial and inflammatory conditions.
Mechanism of Action
SS-31 selectively accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it binds to cardiolipin — a phospholipid unique to the inner mitochondrial membrane that is critical for mitochondrial function. By stabilizing cardiolipin interactions with respiratory chain complexes, SS-31 restores mitochondrial electron transport chain efficiency, reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and prevents cytochrome c release. This cardioprotective and cytoprotective mechanism preserves mitochondrial function under conditions of oxidative stress, ischemia-reperfusion, and inflammatory damage.
Research Highlights
Clinical trials have explored SS-31 in primary mitochondrial myopathy (MMPOWER trials), Barth syndrome, heart failure (PROGRESS-HF), dry age-related macular degeneration (ReCLAIM), and kidney disease. Animal studies have demonstrated efficacy in models of ischemia-reperfusion injury, heart failure, kidney disease, and neurodegenerative conditions. Research has shown improvements in mitochondrial function, reduced oxidative stress, and tissue protection across multiple organ systems. The ReCLAIM trial showed improvements in visual function in dry AMD patients.
Dosage & Administration
In clinical trials, SS-31 has been administered via subcutaneous injection at doses of 0.25-4 mg/kg daily, and via intravenous infusion in acute settings. For research use only (RUO).
Safety Profile
Clinical trials have reported favorable safety profiles, with mild injection site reactions being the most common adverse effect. No significant systemic adverse events have been reported at therapeutic doses. Long-term safety data is being collected in ongoing trials. Not yet approved by the FDA for any indication.
References
Karaa A, et al. Elamipretide in primary mitochondrial myopathy (MMPOWER). Neurology. 2018. Birk AV, et al. Targeting mitochondrial cardiolipin. Trends Mol Med. 2014. Szeto HH. SS-31 and mitochondria. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2017. All content is for educational and research purposes only.
Related Compounds
Synergy & Compatibility
(5)Computational assessment of bio-regulatory compatibility with compounds sharing research goals. Scores reflect half-life alignment, receptor target overlap, and bioavailability data.
Computational assessment based on available pharmacology data. Does not account for individual variability, dose-dependent effects, or unstudied interactions. For research use only.
Community Observations
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For research use only. Not medical advice.