SS-31 (Elamipretide)
FDA ApprovedElamipretide (SS-31)
A mitochondria-targeting peptide that reduces oxidative stress and improves mitochondrial function. FDA approved for Barth syndrome. Researched for heart failure, aging, and energy.
Dose
0.1 mg/kg to 0.25 mg/kg
Route
SubQ injection, IV
Cycle
Variable, often continuous in research settings
Storage
2-8°C (refrigerated)
What is SS-31 (Elamipretide)?
SS-31 (elamipretide) received FDA approval for Barth syndrome, a rare mitochondrial disorder. That approval is for that indication specifically — broader mitochondrial, longevity, or performance uses remain research applications. SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, is a mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide that has garnered significant research interest for its potential to mitigate oxidative stress and improve mitochondrial function. Its unique structure allows it to selectively accumulate in the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it interacts with cardiolipin. This interaction is believed to protect cardiolipin from oxidative damage, stabilize mitochondrial cristae structure, and enhance electron transport chain efficiency, thereby improving ATP production and reducing the generation of reactive oxygen species. While approved for Barth syndrome, research protocols commonly investigate its applications in conditions characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction, such as heart failure, sarcopenia, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Key Benefits
- Mitochondrial function improvement
- Reduced oxidative stress
- Cardiovascular support
- Energy production
- Anti-aging potential
Mechanism of Action
- Targets cardiolipin in inner mitochondrial membrane
- Reduces reactive oxygen species
- Improves electron transport chain efficiency
- Protects mitochondrial function
Best For
- Mitochondrial health research
- Cardiovascular research
- Anti-aging
- Energy research
Body Systems
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Molecular Information
Molecular weight
639.8 g/mol
Length
4 amino acids
Type
Tetrapeptide
Amino acid sequence
D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2 (Dmt = dimethyltyrosine)
The sequence is often represented as F-D-R-F, where F is Phenylalanine and D-R is D-Arginine. Dmt (dimethyltyrosine) is a modified tyrosine residue.
Pharmacokinetics
Time to peak
Approximately 0.5 - 2 hours
Half-life
2 h
Time to clear
Approximately 10-12 hours
Based on pharmacokinetic studies cited in literature for Elamipretide
Research Indications
Barth Syndrome
FDA approved for Barth syndrome, a genetic disorder causing mitochondrial dysfunction, cardiolipin deficiency, and muscle weakness. Research shows improvements in cardiac function and exercise capacity.
Mitochondrial Myopathies
Investigated for its ability to improve mitochondrial function and reduce symptoms in various forms of mitochondrial myopathies by protecting mitochondrial membranes.
Research Protocols
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Improve cardiac function in HFpEF models | 0.15 mg/kg | Daily | Subcutaneous injection |
| Reduce oxidative stress in age-related models | 0.1 mg/kg | Daily | Subcutaneous injection |
| Mitochondrial protection in ischemia-reperfusion injury | 0.25 mg/kg | Single dose or short course around event | Intravenous or subcutaneous injection |
| Assess impact on muscle mitochondrial function in sarcopenia | 0.1 mg/kg - 0.2 mg/kg | Daily | Subcutaneous injection |
| Neuroprotection in neurodegenerative models | 0.05 mg/kg - 0.1 mg/kg | Daily | Subcutaneous injection |
Consistency in daily administration is often emphasized in research protocols to maintain steady-state levels and optimize potential benefits.
Peptide Interactions
- Compatible
Other antioxidants (e.g., N-acetylcysteine, CoQ10)
Theoretically compatible, as SS-31 targets mitochondrial-specific oxidative stress. No known adverse interactions, but synergistic effects are not extensively studied.
- Use Caution
Mitochondrial uncouplers
Could potentially interfere with SS-31's mechanism of action, which involves optimizing mitochondrial efficiency. Monitoring of mitochondrial function would be crucial.
- Monitor Combination
Drugs affecting renal function
SS-31 is primarily renally excreted. Co-administration with drugs that significantly impact renal function may require dose adjustment or increased monitoring of renal parameters.
- Compatible
Immunosuppressants
No direct immunological effects are reported for SS-31. No known adverse interactions.
- Compatible
Beta-blockers (e.g., Metoprolol, Carvedilol)
Often co-administered in cardiovascular research contexts (e.g., heart failure). No known direct adverse interactions, though combined effects on cardiac function are monitored.
How to Reconstitute
- 1Gather materials: lyophilized SS-31 vial, bacteriostatic water for injection (BWFI), sterile syringes (e.g., 1 mL), sterile needles (e.g., 23-25 gauge for reconstitution, 27-30 gauge for injection), alcohol swabs.
- 2Clean vial tops: Swab the rubber stoppers of both the SS-31 vial and the BWFI vial with alcohol swabs and allow them to air dry.
- 3Draw diluent: Using a sterile syringe, draw the desired amount of BWFI. A common reconstitution ratio aims for a concentration that makes dosing convenient (e.g., 5 mg/mL).
- 4Add diluent to peptide: Carefully inject the BWFI into the SS-31 vial, aiming the needle towards the side of the vial to prevent direct spraying onto the powder.
- 5Gentle mixing: Do not shake the vial vigorously. Gently swirl the vial or roll it between your palms until the powder is completely dissolved. This may take a few minutes.
- 6Storage: Once reconstituted, store the vial in the refrigerator at 2-8°C. Protect from light.
Bacteriostatic water for injection (BWFI) is commonly discussed for reconstitution to allow for multi-dose use.
What to Expect
- Weeks 1-4: Initial subjective reports may include minor improvements in energy levels or exercise tolerance, though significant changes are often not observed early.
- Weeks 4-8: Researchers might begin to observe more consistent, subtle improvements in markers of mitochondrial function or reductions in oxidative stress in preclinical models.
- Weeks 8-12: In some research contexts, more noticeable changes in physical performance, cardiovascular parameters, or cognitive function might become apparent, depending on the research model.
- Months 3-6+: Longer-term studies often investigate the sustained benefits on disease progression, aging biomarkers, or quality of life metrics.
Side Effects & Safety
| Effect | Frequency | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Injection site reactions | Common | Mild |
| Fatigue initially | Uncommon | Mild |
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Open CalculatorPeptides discussed here are for research purposes only. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making health decisions.