SS-31 (Elamipretide) – Research Overview
SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, is a synthetic mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide that has been extensively studied in preclinical and laboratory research for its role in mitochondrial membrane stabilization, cellular energy regulation, and oxidative stress modulation. Due to its selective affinity for cardiolipin within the inner mitochondrial membrane, SS-31 is frequently referenced in mitochondrial dysfunction research, cellular bioenergetics studies, and aging-related metabolic investigations.
This page provides a research-focused, educational overview of SS-31, including its molecular classification, mechanism of action in research contexts, and primary areas of scientific investigation.
⚠️ Research Disclaimer:
This content is provided strictly for educational and research purposes. No information on this page constitutes medical advice, dosing guidance, or instructions for human or animal use.
Compound Overview
SS-31 is classified as a mitochondria-penetrating peptide, designed to selectively localize to the inner mitochondrial membrane. In laboratory research environments, SS-31 is studied for its ability to influence mitochondrial structure, electron transport chain efficiency, and cellular energy production signaling. Unlike many peptides that act at cell-surface receptors, SS-31 operates within mitochondria, making it a central compound in mitochondrial-specific signaling and protection research.Research Background & Classification
From a molecular research perspective, SS-31 belongs to a class of mitochondrial-targeted peptides engineered to interact with cardiolipin, a phospholipid essential for mitochondrial membrane integrity and respiratory chain organization. Researchers study SS-31 to explore how mitochondrial-localized peptides influence:- Mitochondrial membrane stability
- Oxidative phosphorylation efficiency
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling balance
- Cellular bioenergetic resilience
- Mitochondrial stress-response pathways
Mechanism of Action (Research Context)
In laboratory research settings, SS-31 has been studied for its selective binding to cardiolipin, which helps maintain mitochondrial membrane architecture and optimize electron transport chain function. Researchers analyze how SS-31 influences mitochondrial respiration, ATP generation signaling, and oxidative stress modulation in controlled experimental models. SS-31 is also examined for its role in reducing mitochondrial-derived oxidative damage and supporting cellular survival pathways under stress conditions. All mechanisms are discussed strictly within a research context, without implication of clinical or therapeutic application.
Areas of Scientific Research Interest
SS-31 has been referenced in scientific research related to:- Mitochondrial membrane stabilization
- Cardiolipin-associated signaling pathways
- Cellular bioenergetics and ATP regulation
- Oxidative stress and ROS modulation
- Mitochondrial dysfunction research
- Aging-related metabolic decline studies
- Cardiometabolic and neuroprotective research models
- Mitochondrial-targeted peptide development
