SS-31 (CAS 736992-21-5), also known as Elamipretide, Bendavia, and MTP-131, is a synthetic mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide with the molecular formula C32H49N9O5 and a molecular weight of 639.80 g/mol (free base). Defined by the amino acid sequence D-Arg-2’,6’-dimethylTyr-Lys-Phe-NH2, SS-31 belongs to the Szeto-Schiller (SS) family of cell-penetrating peptides and features an alternating motif of cationic and aromatic residues, a structural arrangement considered central to its mitochondrial targeting properties. The incorporation of D-arginine and 2’,6’-dimethyltyrosine (Dmt) confers resistance to enzymatic degradation. Produced via solid-phase peptide synthesis, Elamipretide selectively accumulates at the inner mitochondrial membrane through cardiolipin binding.

SS-31’s ability to bind cardiolipin has been characterised as a mechanism that selectively directs the peptide to the inner mitochondrial membrane. In vitro studies have documented that SS-31 selectively targets cardiolipin and modulates its interaction with cytochrome c, inhibiting peroxidase activity of cytochrome c/cardiolipin complex while protecting the capacity of cytochrome c to serve as an electron carrier, and characterising these effects as the basis for more efficient mitochondrial electron transport and ATP synthesis [1]. In vivo rodent studies have examined the compound in models of age-related mitochondrial dysfunction, documenting that a single administration of the mitochondrial-targeted peptide rapidly restored resting and maximal mitochondrial ATP production, oxidative phosphorylation coupling, and cellular energy state toward young levels in the skeletal muscle of aged mice, alongside a more reduced glutathione redox status, lower mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide emission, and greater fatigue resistance [2], making SS-31 a reference compound in mitochondrial bioenergetics research examining cardiolipin-targeted modulation of electron transport and age-associated mitochondrial function in preclinical models.

SS-31 is manufactured in a cGMP compliant, ISO9001 certified laboratory to a guaranteed purity of 98% or above. Every batch is independently tested using HPLC and MS-UPLC analysis before dispatch. Vials are vacuum sealed and stored in a temperature controlled, monitored cold storage system. Certificates of Analysis are available on request.

Sold strictly for in vitro research purposes only. Not for human consumption. Intended for use by qualified researchers in laboratory settings only.

Editorial Team

Dr. Martina Rossi, PhD

Scientific Contributor and Reviewer

Reviewed and approved 14 June 2026

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