Overview
SS-31 (elamipretide) is a synthetic aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide belonging to the Szeto–Schiller class of mitochondria-targeting peptides. Its alternating aromatic and basic residues give the molecule a delocalized positive charge that allows it to cross the outer membrane and concentrate on the inner mitochondrial membrane independent of membrane potential. There it associates selectively with cardiolipin, a phospholipid essentially unique to that membrane. It is produced synthetically for laboratory research use.
Mechanism as studied
The research literature characterizes SS-31 through its selective binding to cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane. This interaction is reported to stabilize electron-transport-chain supercomplexes and the cytochrome-c–cardiolipin association, to preserve cristae architecture, and to support the efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation. In-vitro work also associates the peptide with reduced mitochondrial reactive-oxygen-species generation. These effects are documented at the organelle and cellular level.
Research context
Contexts in which this compound appears in the in-vitro and preclinical research literature:
- Isolated-mitochondria and permeabilized-cell assays of oxidative-phosphorylation efficiency and respiratory coupling.
- Cardiolipin-binding and electron-transport-chain supercomplex-stability studies.
- Preclinical cardiac models of ischemia–reperfusion and heart failure examining mitochondrial endpoints.
- Preclinical ocular and retinal models of mitochondrial dysfunction.
- Skeletal-muscle preparations studying mitochondrial reactive-oxygen-species and bioenergetics.
Handling & storage
Supplied as a lyophilized powder for laboratory reconstitution, typically with bacteriostatic water to the working concentration required by the assay. Swirl gently to dissolve rather than vortexing, prepare in a clean field, and aliquot to reduce freeze–thaw cycles.
Store the sealed lyophilized vial at −20 °C protected from light, where it is stable long-term. Refrigerate reconstituted material at 2–8 °C and minimize repeated freeze–thaw.
Certificates of analysis
Independent and in-house certificates published for this compound. Each reports identity and HPLC purity for the tested lot.
Order SS-31 (Elamipretide)
Lot-traceable, certificate-backed, and shipped cold-chain from the US.
For research use only
This guide is reference material for qualified researchers. The compound is an analytical-grade reference material supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and development — not a drug, supplement, or medical device, and not for human or animal consumption or any therapeutic, clinical, or diagnostic use. No medical claims are made or implied.
