SS-31 (Elamipretide)
Synthetic tetrapeptide for research on mitochondrial function, cellular energy production, and protection from oxidative stress.
What is SS-31
SS-31 10mg , also known as Elamipretide or SZeto-Schiller peptide , is a novel synthetic peptide composed of four amino acids. It was developed around the year 2000 by researchers Hazel H. Szeto and Peter W. Schiller . Initially designed as a ligand for the μ-opioid receptor, it later revealed an unexpected ability to selectively accumulate in the mitochondria , where it interacts with cardiolipin , an essential phospholipid present in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
This interaction allows SS-31 to stabilize mitochondrial structure , improve the efficiency of ATP production (the main source of cellular energy), and reduce the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) , the main culprits of cellular damage and aging. Thanks to its small size and lipophilic properties, the peptide easily crosses cell membranes and reaches mitochondria in various tissue types.
SS-31 and mitochondrial function
SS-31 10mg, Mitochondria are the cell’s powerhouses, responsible for producing ATP through oxidative phosphorylation. However, when mitochondrial function deteriorates—due to aging, oxidative stress, or genetic mutations—cells lose energy and begin to degenerate. SS-31 binds to cardiolipin , stabilizing the structure of the mitochondrial cristae, improving cellular respiration and limiting lipid peroxidation.
Initial experimental evidence has shown that SS-31 accelerates ATP recovery and reduces necrosis in animal models of ischemia-reperfusion injury , a process in which blood flow and oxygen are temporarily interrupted and then restored, causing severe cellular damage. Furthermore, in studies on aged mice, a single dose of SS-31 rapidly improved mitochondrial bioenergetics , increasing ATP production and reducing oxidative stress. These results were not observed in young subjects, indicating that the peptide acts specifically on age-related mitochondrial deficits .
Applications in biomedical research
SS-31 10mg, Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in numerous chronic and degenerative diseases , including Alzheimer’s , Parkinson’s , metabolic syndrome, cardiomyopathies, and mitochondrial myositis. SS-31 is currently being studied in clinical trials as a potential therapy for primary mitochondrial myopathies and heart failure . In preclinical experiments, the peptide has shown the ability to reduce the opening of the mitochondrial transition pore (MPT) , preventing mitochondrial depolarization and apoptosis. These protective effects, combined with a decrease in inflammation and free radical production, make it a highly attractive candidate for mitochondrial pharmacology research.
Furthermore, the ability of SS-31 to maintain mitochondrial integrity translates into improved resistance to muscle fatigue , reduced oxidative damage , and improved cardiac and renal function in models of ischemia and energy failure.
SS-31 and cardiac protection
Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a key role in heart failure and ischemic myocardial injury. SS-31 has emerged as a potential cardioprotective agent , capable of restoring mitochondrial function and limiting damage resulting from ischemia and oxidative stress. Studies on human cardiac tissue have shown that SS-31 increases mitochondrial oxygen flow and enhances the activity of respiratory complexes, without altering the structure of cardiolipin. These results suggest a multiple mechanism of action, beyond simple lipid stabilization.
In animal models of advanced heart failure , chronic treatment with SS-31 improved left ventricular function and increased ATP production, slowing cardiac tissue remodeling. Furthermore, in studies of acute myocardial infarction (STEMI), the peptide significantly reduced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and the spread of tissue damage, confirming its potential role in protecting the heart during ischemic events.
SS-31 and carbohydrate metabolism
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a major cause of oxidative stress associated with type 2 diabetes . SS-31 has been shown to reduce ROS production in metabolically active tissues, improve mitochondrial membrane potential, and increase levels of SIRT1 , a protein linked to insulin sensitivity and cellular longevity.
In clinical and preclinical studies, SS-31 treatment resulted in a decrease in inflammatory markers such as NF-κB-p65 and TNF-α , as well as improved the interaction between leukocytes and endothelial cells. These combined effects suggest a potential role for the peptide in improving mitochondrial function and preventing cardiovascular and microvascular complications associated with diabetes.
SS-31 and modulation of inflammation
SS-31 also acts as a modulator of chronic inflammation due to its ability to neutralize reactive oxygen species and protect mitochondrial structure. By reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory proteins such as CD36 , FIS1 , and NF-κB p65 , the peptide helps maintain mitochondrial morphology and prevent inflammasome activation , which is responsible for many cellular inflammatory reactions.
At the same time, SS-31 enhances endogenous antioxidant defense mechanisms, such as MnSOD and catalase , reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α . In animal models, treatment with SS-31 has been shown to reduce tissue damage and improve histological parameters in various organs, including the kidney and brain, strengthening its potential in combating chronic inflammation and degenerative diseases.
Perspectives and clinical development
Although Phase III clinical trials have not yet provided conclusive results, Phase II trials have shown significant improvements in physical performance and bioenergetic parameters in patients with primary mitochondrial myopathy . SS-31 has demonstrated an excellent safety profile and excellent tolerability, with no significant side effects.
Researchers such as Bruce Cohen have highlighted that the failure of later phases could be linked to the choice of suboptimal endpoints, and that future studies with more targeted protocols could confirm the peptide’s therapeutic potential. New clinical trials are currently underway to test its efficacy in various conditions, including Barth syndrome , age-related macular degeneration , and neurodegenerative diseases .
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