Description
A small synthetic aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide (D-Arg-2’6′-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) from the Szeto-Schiller peptide series. Selectively targets and accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane where it binds cardiolipin – a phospholipid critical for electron transport chain function. By protecting cardiolipin from oxidative damage and peroxidation, SS-31 preserves mitochondrial membrane integrity, improves ATP production efficiency, and reduces mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS). FDA accelerated approval (as FORZINITY/elamipretide) granted September 2025 for Barth syndrome – making it the first mitochondria-targeting therapy to receive FDA approval. Phase 3 trials in other conditions (heart failure, primary mitochondrial myopathy, dry AMD) have shown mixed results.
Benefits:
Mitochondrial membrane stabilization and cardiolipin protection; improved ATP production and mitochondrial energy efficiency; reduction of mitochondrial ROS and oxidative stress; improved skeletal muscle strength (demonstrated in Barth syndrome – FDA-approved indication); cardiac stroke volume improvement (Barth syndrome trial); neuroprotection via mitochondrial support; potential anti-aging effects (mitochondrial decline is central to cellular aging); cardiomyocyte protection in ischemia-reperfusion injury (preclinical); potential benefits in metabolic syndrome and age-related mitochondrial decline; kidney protection in acute injury models
Side Effects:
Injection site reactions – very common (80% incidence: erythema, induration, pruritus, pain, bruising at injection site); headache; dizziness; nausea; potential histamine release (pruritis, urticaria); fatigue; generally no serious systemic adverse events at studied doses; injection site burden significant with daily subcutaneous administration; limited long-term safety data outside clinical trials.
For laboratory research only — not for human consumption.
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