SS-31 (Elamipretide)
The Mitochondrial Rescue Peptide for Energy, Aging, and Cellular Repair
What is SS-31 (Elamipretide)?
SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, is a mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide that has gained considerable traction in research for its ability to improve mitochondrial function, reduce oxidative stress, and support tissue repair. Originally developed for treating mitochondrial myopathies and degenerative diseases, it is now widely studied in the context of longevity, cardiovascular health, neuroprotection, and athletic performance recovery.
The peptide is composed of four amino acids (D-Arg-dimethylTyr-Lys-Phe-NH2) and is designed to selectively target cardiolipin, a unique lipid in the inner mitochondrial membrane essential for ATP production and mitochondrial integrity.
How Does SS-31 Work?
SS-31 accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane where it binds to cardiolipin, stabilizing the mitochondrial structure and improving electron transport chain (ETC) function.
Mechanism of Action:
- Binds to cardiolipin and supports optimal ETC activity
- Reduces mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS)
- Improves membrane potential and ATP output
- Inhibits mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening
- Prevents cytochrome c release and apoptosis in stressed cells
Benefits of SS-31 in Research
🔋 Mitochondrial Performance & Longevity
- Enhances cellular ATP production
- Reverses mitochondrial dysfunction in aging and disease models
- Supports mitophagy and healthy mitochondrial turnover
🧠 Neuroprotection & Cognitive Support
- Improves cognitive function in aging and brain injury models
- Reduces oxidative damage and neuroinflammation
- May protect against Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and stroke damage
❤️ Cardiovascular & Muscle Recovery
- Protects cardiomyocytes from ischemic damage
- Improves endothelial function and microcirculation
- Speeds recovery after intense exercise or injury
SS-31 vs MOTS-c vs NAD+
| Feature | SS-31 | MOTS-c | NAD+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Mitochondrial cardiolipin stabilization | AMPK + metabolic activation | Coenzyme in energy metabolism |
| ROS Reduction | Strong | Moderate | Indirect via sirtuins |
| Mitochondrial Targeting | Direct | Indirect | Indirect |
| Ideal Use | Tissue recovery, anti-aging | Metabolism, performance | Energy, cellular repair |
SS-31 is uniquely positioned for direct mitochondrial membrane repair and performance optimization.
Suggested Dosage & Protocol (Research Use Only)
Subcutaneous or Intramuscular Injection:
- 1mg to 5mg daily, split into 1–2 doses
- Typical use: 2.5mg SC daily, often administered in the morning
Cycle Duration:
- Used in 4–12 week cycles for mitochondrial enhancement
- Can be used pre- or post-exercise for recovery protocols
Safety Profile of SS-31
SS-31 has undergone extensive preclinical and human safety trials with a strong safety profile.
Common Observations:
- Improved energy, stamina, and recovery time
- Enhanced focus and clarity (from CNS mitochondrial optimization)
Rare Side Effects:
- Mild injection site irritation
- Occasional headache or flushing
- No known systemic toxicity at studied doses
Reference:
- Zhao K et al., “Cell-permeable Peptide Antioxidants Targeted to Inner Mitochondrial Membrane inhibit Mitochondrial Swelling, Oxidative Cell Death, and Reperfusion Injury.” J Biol Chem, 2004. https://www.jbc.org/article/S0021-9258(20)77302-3/pdf
Storage Instructions
- Store lyophilized SS-31 at 2–8°C
- Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water
- Use within 14–30 days post-reconstitution and refrigerate
Ideal Stack Pairings
SS-31 is frequently stacked with:
- MOTS-c – for synergistic mitochondrial signaling and fat oxidation
- NAD+ or NMN – to support cellular energy and oxidative balance
- 5-Amino-1MQ – for metabolic flexibility and NNMT inhibition
- ARA-290 – for inflammation and tissue repair synergy
Is SS-31 Right for Your Research?
If your research targets mitochondrial repair, tissue regeneration, anti-aging, or metabolic disorders, SS-31 is an essential compound. It’s ideal for applications in neurodegeneration, muscle recovery, cardiovascular damage, and performance enhancement.
Final Thoughts
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a cutting-edge mitochondrial peptide designed to restore bioenergetic capacity and reduce cellular damage at its root. Its powerful mechanism targeting cardiolipin and protecting the electron transport chain makes it a prime candidate for advanced regenerative and performance-based protocols.
Lab of RAD offers research-grade SS-31 to support experimental applications in longevity, mitochondrial medicine, and recovery science.
⚠️ FDA Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. SS-31 (Elamipretide) has not been evaluated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Lab of RAD peptides are for laboratory research use only and are not for human consumption.