Buy SS-31 — The Mitochondria-Targeted Tetrapeptide for Bioenergetics and Oxidative Stress Research

SS-31 (Elamipretide, MTP-131) is a synthetic, water-soluble tetrapeptide that selectively targets the inner mitochondrial membrane. Researchers study it extensively for its ability to stabilize cardiolipin, reduce mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), and restore bioenergetic function in models of oxidative stress. Consequently, it has become a benchmark compound in mitochondrial research.

What Is SS-31?

SS-31 is a cell-permeable tetrapeptide with the sequence D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH₂ (D-Arg-dimethylTyr-Lys-Phe-NH₂). Scientists developed it as a member of the Szeto-Schiller (SS) peptide family, which features alternating aromatic and basic residues. This alternating structure drives the peptide’s affinity for the inner mitochondrial membrane. Moreover, SS-31 accumulates in mitochondria independently of membrane potential, which distinguishes it from earlier mitochondria-targeted compounds such as TPP-based antioxidants.

How Does SS-31 Work?

SS-31 protects mitochondrial function through several interconnected mechanisms that center on cardiolipin binding and membrane stabilization.

Cardiolipin Binding and Membrane Stabilization

SS-31 selectively binds cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane through electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. Cardiolipin is a phospholipid critical for the stability of respiratory chain supercomplexes. Upon binding, SS-31 stabilizes cardiolipin structure, preserves cristae architecture, and enhances electron transport chain activity. As a result, it improves oxidative phosphorylation efficiency and ATP production.

Proton Leak Reduction and ROS Attenuation

SS-31 reduces proton leak through the mitochondrial ADP/ATP translocase (ANT1) by depleting cations in the membrane interfacial region. Furthermore, the peptide inhibits electroporation of the inner mitochondrial membrane, which reduces ion leak under conditions of high membrane potential. This mechanism curbs ROS overproduction without disrupting normal bioenergetics. Additionally, SS-31 inhibits mitochondrial lipid peroxidation and attenuates mitochondria-dependent ferroptosis through activation of mitochondrial glutathione peroxidase 4 (mitoGPX4).

Cytochrome c Peroxidase Inhibition

SS-31 shields the heme iron of cytochrome c from ROS, preventing its conversion into a peroxidase that targets cardiolipin. Therefore, the peptide preserves a critical component of the electron transport chain while simultaneously protecting the membrane phospholipid environment.

Key Research Applications

Researchers study SS-31 across a broad range of preclinical mitochondrial dysfunction models.

• Mitochondrial bioenergetics and ATP production investigations

• Cardiac and skeletal muscle myopathy research (HFpEF, diabetic cardiomyopathy)

• Neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation models (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s)

• Spinal cord injury and neural remodeling studies

• Ischemia-reperfusion injury and ferroptosis research

• Aging, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysfunction models

When you Buy SS-31 from our catalog, you receive a high-purity lyophilized research peptide available in 10mg vial configurations. We test every batch independently to ≥99% purity by HPLC, and we confirm identity through third-party mass spectrometry against the theoretical mass of 639.79 g/mol. In addition, each batch undergoes LAL endotoxin testing, heavy metals screening, and microbial limit testing. We include batch-specific Certificates of Analysis for full research transparency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SS-31 used for in research?

Researchers use SS-31 in laboratory studies of mitochondrial bioenergetics, cardiolipin stabilization, ROS attenuation, and oxidative stress in cardiac, skeletal muscle, and neuronal models. However, it is not approved for human or veterinary use.

How should I store SS-31?

Store the lyophilized vial at −20°C in a desiccated environment and protect it from light. After reconstitution, refrigerate the solution at 2–8°C and avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

What purity should I expect?

We test every batch to ≥99% purity by HPLC. We ship a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis with each order, and it covers HPLC purity, mass spectrometry identity, endotoxin levels, and heavy metals screening.

What is the difference between SS-31 and MOTS-c?

SS-31 is a synthetic tetrapeptide that targets the inner mitochondrial membrane and binds cardiolipin. MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that activates AMPK through folate cycle inhibition. Whereas SS-31 acts primarily on membrane structure and bioenergetics, MOTS-c functions as a metabolic signaling molecule.

Important Research Disclaimer

This product is intended strictly for laboratory research use only. It is not for human or veterinary use, and not for diagnostic or therapeutic applications. As of 2026, SS-31 (elamipretide) remains an investigational peptide with no FDA-approved indication for general use, though it has received accelerated approval for Barth syndrome. Therefore, no one outside an institutional research setting should handle or use SS-31. Qualified researchers should handle all peptides in accordance with institutional safety guidelines and applicable regulations.

Ready to Advance Your Mitochondrial Research?

Buy SS-31 today and join laboratories worldwide that rely on verified purity, batch-level transparency, and U.S.-made quality.