SS-31 (Elamipretide)
SS-31 (also known as Elamipretide or Bendavia) is a synthetic tetrapeptide that targets the inner mitochondrial membrane. Unlike most peptides that work through cell-surface receptors, SS-31 concentrates 5,000x inside mitochondria where it binds cardiolipin — a critical phospholipid that anchors the electron transport chain. It's the furthest along in clinical trials of any research peptide, with human data in heart failure, kidney disease, and mitochondrial myopathy.
Key Mechanisms
Binds and stabilizes cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, optimizing electron transport chain efficiency.
Improves coupling efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation, increasing cellular energy output.
Reduces mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production at the source — electron transport chain complex I and III.
Concentrates inside mitochondria at 5,000x the extracellular level due to its Szeto-Schiller motif and positive charge.
SS-31 Vendor Price Comparison
See real-time pricing for SS-31 (Elamipretide) from research peptide vendors. Compare price-per-mg, purity testing, and shipping.
In-Depth SS-31 Guides
SS-31 (Elamipretide): Mechanism, Benefits & Research Overview
Deep dive into SS-31's unique mitochondrial mechanism — cardiolipin binding, electron transport chain optimization, and multi-organ effects.
SS-31 Dosing Guide: Research Dosage & Clinical Protocols
Dosing data from preclinical studies and human clinical trials. Routes of administration, clinical trial protocols, and duration considerations.
Comparisons
Related Reading
SS-31 is one of the few research peptides with substantial human clinical trial data. Phase II and III trials have been conducted for Barth syndrome, heart failure, primary mitochondrial myopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. Results have been mixed but the safety profile is well-established.
Content reviewed and updated February 2026. All claims linked to published peer-reviewed studies.