SS-31 Frequently Asked Questions

SS-31 (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) is a synthetic aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide that selectively targets and concentrates in mitochondria, specifically the inner mitochondrial membrane. Also known as Elamipretide or Bendavia, it belongs to the Szeto-Schiller peptide family. Peptides Pharma SS-31 is formulated at >99% purity in a lyophilized vial.

SS-31 selectively binds to cardiolipin, a phospholipid unique to the inner mitochondrial membrane that is essential for electron transport chain function. By stabilising cardiolipin, SS-31 is thought to optimise electron transfer, reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and prevent mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening. Its alternating aromatic-cationic structure enables mitochondrial targeting independent of membrane potential.

SS-31 is studied in research related to mitochondrial dysfunction, heart failure, ischemia-reperfusion injury, age-related organ decline, Barth syndrome, kidney injury, skeletal muscle dysfunction, and neurodegenerative disease models. Its unique mitochondria-targeting mechanism makes it relevant across multiple organ systems.

Peptides Pharma SS-31 is manufactured to >99% purity in GMP-certified, ISO 7 cleanroom facilities. Each batch is verified by independent HPLC and mass spectrometry analysis. Certificates of Analysis are available for every production batch.

Lyophilized SS-31 should be stored at -20°C for long-term storage or at 2-8°C for short-term use. Keep away from light, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. Once reconstituted, store at 2-8°C and use within 28 days.

Reconstitute SS-31 by slowly adding bacteriostatic water down the inside wall of the vial. Gently swirl until the lyophilized powder is fully dissolved — do not shake vigorously. Choose the reconstitution volume to achieve the desired concentration for your research protocol.

Reconstituted SS-31 stored at 2-8°C with bacteriostatic water is typically stable for up to 28 days. Always use aseptic technique when withdrawing doses to prevent contamination and maintain solution integrity.

Yes. Peptides Pharma SS-31 is supplied strictly for laboratory and research purposes. Elamipretide is under clinical investigation for certain conditions but is not an approved medicine. Peptides Pharma's formulation is sold exclusively as a research compound.

Unlike most mitochondria-targeted compounds that rely on mitochondrial membrane potential for accumulation, SS-31's alternating aromatic-cationic motif enables it to concentrate in mitochondria even in depolarised (damaged) organelles. This is critical because dysfunctional mitochondria — the ones that most need intervention — typically have reduced membrane potential.

SS-31 is sometimes studied alongside other mitochondria-relevant compounds such as NAD+ and MOTS-C in research investigating comprehensive mitochondrial support. Its cardiolipin-targeting mechanism complements compounds acting through different mitochondrial pathways. Researchers should consult published literature for combination protocol design.