What Is SS-31 (Elamipretide)?
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a mitochondria-targeted peptide supplied by Peptegrity for research and educational purposes. This page provides a factual educational overview of SS-31 (Elamipretide), including its classification, biological target, research background, terminology and published study context. It is not a product page and does not provide dosing instructions, treatment recommendations or personal-use guidance.
Type of compound
SS-31, also known as elamipretide, is classified as a mitochondria-targeted peptide [4]. It consists of a specific sequence of amino acids designed to localize within the inner mitochondrial membrane [2].
Biological target and mechanism
Elamipretide interacts with cardiolipin, a phospholipid essential for the structural integrity and function of the inner mitochondrial membrane [2]. By binding to cardiolipin, the peptide aims to stabilize the mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes and improve ATP production efficiency [4]. Research suggests this interaction may help modulate mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production and support cellular bioenergetics [2].
Research background
SS-31 is being investigated for its potential to address mitochondrial dysfunction in various models of oxidative stress and age-related tissue degradation [3]. Because mitochondria are central to cellular energy homeostasis, researchers are evaluating how target-specific peptides might influence cellular metabolism [4]. This area of study focuses on identifying whether stabilizing mitochondrial membranes can maintain normal cell function under conditions of metabolic stress [2].
Current research and development status
Elamipretide is currently considered an investigational research compound and is not an FDA-approved medication [1][3]. Various clinical studies have evaluated its performance in cohorts, including trials for primary mitochondrial myopathy and age-related ocular conditions [1][3]. It remains strictly confined to laboratory and clinical research settings.
Published research context
Published research encompasses a range of investigations from structural analysis to human clinical trials [1][4]. Studies have focused on the assessment of safety and efficacy in patients with specific genetic myopathies [1] as well as the impact on anatomical outcomes in retinal degeneration [3]. These findings continue to inform the ongoing exploration of how mitochondrial targeting impacts physiological markers [2][4].
Relevant terminology
A mitochondria-targeted peptide is a molecule engineered to accumulate selectively within the mitochondrial matrix or membranes. Cardiolipin is a unique lipid component found almost exclusively in mitochondrial membranes that is critical for the function of enzymes involved in energy production. Bioenergetics refers to the study of how energy is transferred and utilized within biological systems.
Storage and handling terminology
As a research peptide, SS-31 should be stored at low temperatures, typically -20°C or -80°C in a dry environment to maintain molecular stability. Proper handling involves using cleanroom techniques to prevent contamination and degradation upon reconstitution. Users should refer to specific analytical data sheets for reconstitution solvents and environmental sensitivity profiles.
Testing and Certificate of Analysis (COA)
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document issued by quality control laboratories that confirms the purity and identity of a chemical compound. Research-grade elamipretide should be accompanied by verification data, such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) results. These documents provide assurance that the compound meets defined standards for research-grade purity, typically 98% or higher.
Regulatory status
Elamipretide is not approved by the FDA, EMA, or any other national regulatory body for human therapeutic or medical use. It is categorized strictly as a chemical for research and laboratory evaluation purposes. Any use beyond legitimate scientific study is outside the scope of its intended design.
This page is for research and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice, dosing instructions, or treatment recommendations, and does not represent any product as approved to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Compounds described here may be investigational or unapproved medicines; regulatory status is summarised for information only.
Frequently asked questions
What is SS-31 (Elamipretide)?
SS-31 is a synthetic, water-soluble peptide designed to target the inner mitochondrial membrane to facilitate the study of cardiolipin-related mitochondrial function.
How does SS-31 (Elamipretide) work in research models?
Research indicates it binds to cardiolipin, which may support the stability of mitochondrial cristae and the efficiency of the electron transport chain [2][4].
Is SS-31 (Elamipretide) an approved medication?
No, elamipretide is an investigational compound and is not currently approved for medical treatment or clinical use by any regulatory health authorities [1][3].
What is the intended use of this compound?
The compound is intended exclusively for non-clinical, academic, or industrial scientific research purposes, such as in vitro or in vivo laboratory experimentation.
What should researchers look for in a COA?
Researchers should examine the COA for evidence of high purity via HPLC analysis, accurate mass verification through mass spectrometry, and documentation regarding residual solvents or impurity profiles.
References
- 1.Randomized dose-escalation trial of elamipretide in adults with primary mitochondrial myopathyPubMed
- 2.Contemporary insights into elamipretide's mitochondrial mechanism of action and therapeutic effectsPubMed
- 3.ReCLAIM-2: A Randomized Phase II Clinical Trial Evaluating Elamipretide in Age-related Macular Degeneration, Geographic Atrophy Growth, Visual Function, and Ellipsoid Zone PreservationPubMed
- 4.Elamipretide: A Review of Its Structure, Mechanism of Action, and Therapeutic PotentialPubMed
