What is SS31 (Elamipretide)?
SS31, also known as Elamipretide or MTP-131, is a synthetic tetrapeptide (D-Arg-2'6'-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) developed to target the inner mitochondrial membrane. It selectively concentrates in mitochondria and interacts with cardiolipin — a key phospholipid essential for mitochondrial function and ATP production.
What distinguishes SS31 from most research peptides is its extensive clinical trial history. Stealth BioTherapeutics (now Mitobridge) conducted multiple Phase II trials before facing financial difficulties, but the data generated represents some of the most substantial clinical evidence for any research peptide.
⚠ Research Purposes Only: SS31 is a research chemical not approved for routine human use. Clinical trials have been conducted by pharmaceutical companies — this does not constitute consumer approval.
SS31 Clinical Trial Summary
| Trial | Condition | Phase | Key Finding |
|---|---|---|---|
| PROGRESS (2020) | Heart Failure with Preserved EF | Phase II | Improved 6-minute walk, cardiac function markers |
| MMPOWER (2018) | Primary Mitochondrial Myopathy | Phase II | Significant improvement in 6MW test at 4 weeks |
| RRMS Trial | Age-related macular degeneration | Phase II | Improvement in visual acuity measures |
| Renal Protection | Post-cardiac surgery AKI | Phase II | Reduced renal injury biomarkers |
Mechanism of Action
SS31 targets cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Cardiolipin is essential for the proper function of the electron transport chain (ETC) — particularly complex I and complex III. In aged or stressed cells, cardiolipin undergoes peroxidation which impairs ETC function and increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.
SS31 appears to prevent cardiolipin peroxidation, restoring mitochondrial structure and improving ATP synthesis efficiency. This mechanism has broad research implications across ageing, cardiac function and mitochondrial disease.
🔬 Where to Source SS31 for Research (USA & UK)
For USA and UK researchers, RCD.bio is one of the most reliable sources with third-party certificates of analysis. All products are for research purposes only and not approved for human consumption.
Visit RCD.bio →⚠ Affiliate link — use code Tomjunkie for 20% off. Research purposes only.
Frequently Asked Questions
SS31 (Elamipretide) is researched for its mitochondria-targeting properties. Phase II clinical trials have examined its effects in heart failure, mitochondrial myopathy and renal protection. For research purposes only.
SS31 has an unusually extensive clinical trial history for a research peptide, including multiple Phase II trials by Stealth BioTherapeutics. Most research peptides have far less clinical data.
SS31 targets cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, preventing peroxidation and supporting electron transport chain function. This improves mitochondrial energy production in research models.
RCD.bio stocks SS31 (Elamipretide) with certificates of analysis. For research purposes only.