SS-31 (Elamipretide) Research Guide: Cardiolipin-Stabilizing Tetrapeptide
SS-31 is a small tetrapeptide that concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane and stabilizes cardiolipin — a key node in mitochondrial-function research.
What is SS-31?
SS-31 is a mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide developed by Hazel Szeto at Weill Cornell. Its aromatic-cationic sequence enables selective accumulation in the inner mitochondrial membrane without requiring a membrane potential gradient.
Mechanism of action
SS-31 binds cardiolipin, protecting it from reactive-oxygen-species-driven peroxidation. Preserved cardiolipin architecture stabilizes electron transport chain supercomplex I/III/IV assembly and preserves ATP synthesis efficiency in stressed mitochondria.
The peptide is studied in models of ischemia-reperfusion injury, heart failure, mitochondrial myopathies, and age-related mitochondrial decline.
Sourcing & purity
Research-grade material should be ≥99% pure by HPLC with peptide content confirmed via mass spectrometry. Redline Bio material ships with batch documentation; independent third-party COAs are published on the lab reports page as testing returns.
Compliance reminder
Sold and distributed for laboratory research use only. Not approved by the FDA for human consumption, diagnosis, treatment, or cure of any disease. Researchers are responsible for compliance with all applicable institutional, state, and federal regulations.
Frequently asked questions
What is SS-31?
SS-31 (Elamipretide, MTP-131) is a synthetic aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide (D-Arg-2',6'-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH₂) that selectively partitions into the inner mitochondrial membrane at concentrations up to 1000× cytosolic levels.
Mechanism?
SS-31 binds cardiolipin — the signature phospholipid of the inner mitochondrial membrane — protecting it from peroxidation and stabilizing the electron transport chain supercomplexes required for efficient ATP synthesis.
Half-life?
Approximately 2 hours in plasma; tissue and mitochondrial retention is substantially longer.