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SS-31

MitochondriaEvidence Level: researchNot FDA-approved for general therapeutic use; extensive ongoing research
Peptide #26

SS-31 is a mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide specifically designed to optimize mitochondrial function, protect cells from oxidative stress, and improve overall cellular energy production. By directly stabilizing mitochondrial membranes and reducing oxidative damage, SS-31 enhances mitochondrial performance, promoting cellular health, resilience, and improved physiological function across various tissues.

Alternative Names:

Elamipretide, Bendavia

Overview

SS-31 is a synthetic, mitochondria-targeted peptide extensively studied for its powerful antioxidant, cytoprotective, and mitochondrial-protective properties.

How It Works

SS-31 effectively targets mitochondria, stabilizing cardiolipin, a crucial phospholipid component of mitochondrial membranes. This stabilization significantly reduces mitochondrial oxidative stress and improves mitochondrial bioenergetics, enhancing ATP production, and maintaining optimal mitochondrial function.

Clinical Effects

Improves cardiac function after myocardial infarction, reduces damage from ischemic events, enhances neurological recovery in diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, improves mitochondrial function, reduces oxidative stress, and enhances cardiac performance.

Therapeutic Applications

Cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, age-related degenerative conditions

Research Studies

Clinical Trials

Human trials have demonstrated promising results in improving mitochondrial function, cardiovascular health, and neurodegenerative conditions

Preclinical Studies

Indicate reduced neuronal damage, improved cognitive function, and slowed disease progression

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SS-31 legally available? Yes, SS-31 is legally available for research purposes from specialized suppliers but is not approved for general therapeutic use. Have human trials been conducted with SS-31? Yes, human trials have demonstrated promising results in improving mitochondrial function, cardiovascular health, and neurodegenerative conditions. What are potential side effects of SS-31? Reported side effects in clinical studies are minimal and generally mild, including mild gastrointestinal symptoms or injection site reactions. How is SS-31 typically administered? SS-31 is typically administered via intravenous or subcutaneous injections in clinical research settings, with dosing protocols adjusted based on specific therapeutic objectives. Can SS-31 be combined with other therapeutic agents? SS-31 is frequently studied in combination with other therapies. Controlled clinical studies are essential to establish safe and effective combination treatments. Does SS-31 provide permanent improvements in mitochondrial function? SS-31 significantly improves mitochondrial function during active administration. Sustained benefits typically require ongoing or periodic treatments.

Quick Information

Safety Information

Safety Profile

Strong safety profile; extensive safety studies continue to be necessary

Contraindications

Side Effects: Minimal and generally mild, including mild gastrointestinal symptoms or injection site reactions Safety Profile: Strong safety profile; extensive safety studies continue to be necessary

Side Effects

Minimal and generally mild, including mild gastrointestinal symptoms or injection site reactions

Research References

Szeto, H.H. (2014). First-in-class cardiolipin-protective compound as a therapeutic agent to restore mitochondrial bioenergetics. British Journal of Pharmacology. Brown, D.A., et al. (2013). Reduction of early reperfusion injury with the mitochondria-targeting peptide bendavia. Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Zhao, K., et al. (2004). Cell-permeable peptide antioxidants targeted to inner mitochondrial membrane inhibit mitochondrial swelling, oxidative cell death, and reperfusion injury. Journal of Biological Chemistry.

Additional Resources