SS-31
Also known as: Elamipretide, MTP-131, Bendavia, Szeto-Schiller peptide 31
SS-31 is an investigational compound. Elamipretide is in Phase 2/3 trials for heart failure. Not approved for general use. For research and informational purposes only.
Overview
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a mitochondria-targeted peptide that concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, protecting cardiolipin and restoring mitochondrial function. It is being studied for heart failure, aging, and metabolic disease. One of the most exciting longevity-adjacent peptides in current research.
Research Summary
SS-31 selectively accumulates in mitochondria and binds cardiolipin — a phospholipid critical for the electron transport chain. By stabilizing cardiolipin, SS-31 restores ATP production, reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS), and prevents mitochondrial permeability transition. Animal studies show dramatic reversal of mitochondrial dysfunction in aged tissues.
Dosing Range
low
1mg
moderate
5mg
high
10mg
Units: mg · Frequency: daily or every other day
Dosing ranges are aggregated from preclinical research and community protocols. Not medical dosing guidance.
Administration Routes
Reconstitution Notes
Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water. Light-sensitive — store reconstituted solution in amber vial or wrapped in foil. Refrigerate at 2–8°C.Step-by-step reconstitution guide →
Supplies you'll need
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Reported Side Effects
- Injection site reactions
- Nausea (rare)
- Generally well-tolerated in clinical trial populations
Research Papers
2 peer-reviewed sourcesCommunity Experiences
Aggregated from public forums. Anecdotal — not clinical evidence.
Longevity-focused community discussion on SS-31 mitochondrial protocols.
View original threadOverview
SS-31 belongs to a class of Szeto-Schiller peptides designed to cross the mitochondrial membrane and target the inner membrane specifically. Unlike antioxidants that scavenge ROS after the fact, SS-31 addresses the root cause — mitochondrial dysfunction.
Cardiolipin Protection
Cardiolipin is a unique phospholipid found almost exclusively in the inner mitochondrial membrane. It is essential for:
- Electron transport chain efficiency
- ATP synthase activity
- Mitochondrial membrane integrity
As cells age, cardiolipin becomes oxidized and dysfunctional. SS-31 binds cardiolipin directly, stabilizing it and restoring electron transport efficiency.
Clinical Development
Stealth BioTherapeutics (now acquired) ran multiple Phase 2/3 trials:
- PROGRESS trial: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)
- MMPOWER trials: Primary mitochondrial myopathy
- HARP trial: Acute kidney injury
Results were mixed in late-stage trials, but mechanistic data from earlier phases remains compelling for researchers.
Research Interest
SS-31 sits at the intersection of mitochondrial biology, aging research, and cardiovascular medicine — making it one of the more scientifically rigorous peptides in current longevity-focused protocols.
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