The Ultimate Guide to SS-31 (Elamipretide) Peptide: Benefits, Uses, and Research

In the rapidly advancing world of peptide research, SS-31, also known as Elamipretide or Bendavia, emerges as a groundbreaking mitochondria-targeted peptide with profound implications for cellular health and disease prevention. This tetrapeptide is designed to penetrate cells and accumulate in mitochondria, where it combats oxidative stress, restores energy production, and supports overall vitality. At Zenix Peptides, we proudly offer high-purity SS-31 products for research and educational exploration, enabling scientists, wellness enthusiasts, and professionals to delve into its therapeutic potential.

This in-depth guide, as part of our educational series on peptides, covers everything you need to know about SS-31—from its molecular structure and history to mechanisms of action, benefits, clinical research, potential side effects, and practical applications. Optimized for readability with headings, bullet points, and actionable insights, this article draws on peer-reviewed studies to provide a balanced, evidence-based overview. We’ll integrate internal links to our SS-31 offerings, ensuring you can easily access validated products.

This post aims to equip you with comprehensive knowledge on SS-31 and its role in modern health strategies. Whether you’re investigating mitochondrial dysfunction or seeking ways to enhance performance, read on to uncover the science behind this remarkable peptide.

What is SS-31 (Elamipretide)?

SS-31 is a synthetic tetrapeptide composed of four amino acids: D-Arg-dimethylTyr-Lys-Phe-NH2. Its unique structure includes alternating aromatic and basic residues, allowing it to selectively target and penetrate the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM). Unlike traditional antioxidants that act broadly, SS-31 concentrates over 1,000-fold in mitochondria, where it scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protects cardiolipin, a crucial lipid for electron transport chain (ETC) function.

Developed initially as Bendavia and later as Elamipretide, SS-31 is administered via subcutaneous injection in research settings. It’s particularly noted for its cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects, making it a candidate for treating conditions like heart failure, neurodegenerative diseases, and age-related decline. In preclinical models, SS-31 has demonstrated the ability to improve mitochondrial bioenergetics without altering normal cellular processes.

At Zenix Peptides, our SS-31 is available in lyophilized form for optimal stability. For example, check out the Zenix SS-31 10mg | 10-Vial Kit (100mg total) priced at $300, ideal for preliminary research. For larger-scale studies, we offer the Zenix SS-31 50mg | 10-Vial Kit (500mg total) at $800. These kits ensure high purity and come with reconstitution guidelines.

History and Discovery of SS-31

The development of SS-31 traces back to the early 2000s when researchers at Cornell University, led by Hazel Szeto and Peter Rabinovitch, sought novel ways to target mitochondrial dysfunction. Recognizing that mitochondria are the powerhouse of cells but also a major source of damaging ROS, they designed cell-penetrating peptides that could selectively accumulate in these organelles.

SS-31 was one of a series of Szeto-Schiller (SS) peptides, with SS-31 proving most effective in preclinical trials. By 2010, it entered clinical development under Stealth BioTherapeutics as Bendavia, later renamed Elamipretide. Early studies focused on cardiovascular applications, such as ischemia-reperfusion injury, where SS-31 reduced infarct size in animal models. Over the years, its scope expanded to rare diseases like Barth syndrome and primary mitochondrial myopathy.

In 2015, Phase II trials began for heart failure, and by 2020, it was investigated for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other conditions. Although some trials showed mixed results, ongoing research highlights its safety and potential. Today, SS-31 is a staple in mitochondrial medicine, with over 100 publications supporting its use.

For those exploring its historical applications, browse our SS-31 products to find the right dosage for your research needs.

How Does SS-31 Work? Mechanisms of Action

SS-31’s efficacy stems from its targeted approach to mitochondrial repair. Here’s a detailed look at its key mechanisms:

• Mitochondrial Targeting and Penetration: The peptide’s positive charge and amphipathic nature enable it to cross cell membranes and accumulate in the negatively charged IMM. This selective delivery minimizes off-target effects.
• ROS Scavenging and Antioxidant Activity: SS-31 neutralizes superoxide and hydrogen peroxide, preventing lipid peroxidation. It specifically protects cardiolipin from oxidation, preserving cytochrome c function and ETC efficiency.
• Improvement in Bioenergetics: By stabilizing the ETC, SS-31 boosts ATP production and mitochondrial respiration. In stressed cells, it restores electron flow without increasing ROS generation.
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: SS-31 reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation, mitigating chronic inflammation associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.
• Apoptosis Prevention: It blocks cytochrome c release and caspase activation, protecting cells from programmed death in conditions like ischemia or neurodegeneration.
• Organ Protection: In kidneys, heart, and brain, SS-31 ameliorates fibrosis, improves function, and enhances recovery post-injury.

These mechanisms make SS-31 versatile for research into aging, metabolic disorders, and organ-specific diseases. Typical research dosages range from 0.01-1 mg/kg, administered subcutaneously or intravenously.

Key Benefits of SS-31

Backed by extensive preclinical and clinical data, SS-31 offers a range of potential benefits:

• Mitochondrial Protection and Energy Boost: Enhances cellular energy, reducing fatigue and improving endurance in models of muscle aging and heart failure.
• Cardiovascular Health: Reduces infarct size in heart attacks, improves ejection fraction in heart failure, and protects against ischemia-reperfusion injury.
• Neuroprotection: Mitigates cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s models, protects against Parkinson’s-like neurodegeneration, and supports brain health in aging.
• Kidney and Liver Support: Ameliorates diabetic nephropathy, reduces fibrosis in chronic kidney disease, and protects liver from toxins.
• Anti-Aging Effects: Combats sarcopenia, osteoarthritis, and glaucoma by preserving mitochondrial integrity in aging tissues.
• Rare Disease Management: Shows promise in Barth syndrome and primary mitochondrial myopathy, improving muscle strength and quality of life.
• Ocular Health: In trials for dry AMD, it preserves retinal function by reducing mitochondrial damage.

These benefits position SS-31 as a frontrunner in peptide therapy. For research, our 10mg 10-Vial Kit ($300) provides an accessible entry point.

Research and Clinical Studies on SS-31

SS-31 has been evaluated in numerous studies, with mixed but encouraging results:

• Cardiovascular Trials: Phase II studies in heart failure patients showed improved left ventricular function, though larger trials are needed. In renal impairment, it reduced inflammation markers.
• Mitochondrial Diseases: The MMPOWER-3 trial for primary mitochondrial myopathy found no significant 6-minute walk test improvement but noted safety and subgroup benefits. In Barth syndrome, it enhanced cardiac and skeletal muscle function.
• Kidney Disease: Preclinical data show SS-31 reduces proteinuria and fibrosis in diabetic models.
• Neurodegenerative Research: Animal studies indicate protection against amyloid-beta toxicity in Alzheimer’s and dopamine loss in Parkinson’s.
• Aging and Metabolism: Benefits in atherosclerosis, diabetes, and osteoarthritis via ROS reduction.
• Ophthalmology: ReSTORE-1 trial for dry AMD demonstrated visual acuity gains.

Over 500 patients have been treated in trials, confirming a favorable safety profile. Future research may expand to COVID-19 sequelae and long COVID.

For advanced studies, consider our 50mg 10-Vial Kit ($800).

Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations

SS-31 is well-tolerated, with side effects primarily mild:

• Injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus) in up to 57% of users.
• Occasional dizziness, headache, or nausea.

No serious adverse events in major trials. It’s contraindicated in pregnancy; consult literature for interactions.

Source from trusted vendors like Zenix Peptides for purity—explore our shop.

How to Incorporate SS-31 into Your Research or Wellness Routine

For research:

• Dosage: 10-40mg daily subcutaneously, adjusted per protocol.
• Reconstitution: Use bacteriostatic water; store refrigerated.
• Administration: Rotate sites to minimize irritation.

Search our SS-31 variants for options.

Conclusion: Why Choose SS-31 from Zenix Peptides?

SS-31 represents a pinnacle in mitochondrial-targeted therapy, offering hope for diverse conditions through its antioxidant and restorative powers. With robust research backing, it’s an essential tool for forward-thinking studies.

At Zenix Peptides, access premium options like the 10mg Kit ($300) and 50mg Kit ($800). Visit our site for more.

Stay tuned for more in our series. This is for educational purposes—seek expert advice for applications.