SS-31 (Elamipretide)

SS-31, also known as Elamipretide or Bendavia, is a mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide (D-Arg-2′6′-dimethylTyr-Lys-Phe-NH2).
It binds to cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing mitochondrial structure and function. By improving electron transport chain efficiency and reducing oxidative stress, SS-31 has been studied for its ability to restore mitochondrial health, enhance cellular energy, and protect against degenerative diseases. SS-31 remains experimental and is not FDA-approved for therapeutic use.

How It Is Used in Research Settings

  • Studied for protecting mitochondria against oxidative damage and dysfunction.
  • Explored for improving muscle function and exercise tolerance in aging models.
  • Investigated in cardiovascular research for heart failure, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and cardiomyopathy.
  • Examined in neurodegenerative disease models such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
  • Studied for kidney and eye diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.

Proposed Uses (Research Areas)

  • Mitochondrial health and longevity studies.
  • Cardiovascular disease and heart failure research.
  • Neurodegenerative disease models.
  • Kidney disease research.
  • Ophthalmology (retinal and optic nerve protection).

How It Is Dosed in Research Settings

  • Injectable (Subcutaneous or Intravenous): Clinical research trials have used doses of 0.25–0.5 mg/kg/day, delivered via daily injections or IV infusion.
  • Cycle length: Trials range from short infusions (1–5 days for ischemia studies) to longer studies lasting weeks to months for chronic disease models.
  • Handling: Supplied as sterile solution or lyophilized powder; requires refrigeration and protection from light.

Important Considerations

  • Regulatory status: SS-31 is not FDA-approved; it remains under investigation in clinical research.
  • Evidence base: Multiple phase 2 and 3 clinical trials have shown promise in mitochondrial diseases, heart failure, and eye conditions, but FDA approval has not been granted.
  • Safety: Generally well tolerated in research, with mild side effects such as injection site reactions, headache, or nausea reported. Long-term safety requires more study.

Disclaimer

This material is provided for educational purposes only and summarizes published research on SS-31 (Elamipretide).
It is not medical advice. SS-31 is experimental, not FDA-approved, and should not be viewed as a therapy for medical use.

This peptide is for research use only.