SS-31
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a synthetic mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide that selectively concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, studied for mitochondrial dysfunction, cardiomyopathy, and age-related diseases. It has advanced to Phase 2/3 clinical trials for Barth syndrome cardiomyopathy.
Written by WhatPeptide Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-03-17
Half-life
Approximately 2 hours
Dosage range
0.25-40 mg/kg IV (clinical trials); lower subcutaneous research doses used off-label
Administration
Subcutaneous injection
Research level
Moderate
How SS-31 works
SS-31 preferentially accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane where it binds cardiolipin, stabilizing cristae architecture and the electron transport chain supercomplexes required for efficient oxidative phosphorylation. By reducing electron leak and ROS generation at Complex I and III, SS-31 decreases oxidative damage, improves mitochondrial membrane potential, and enhances ATP production. Phase 2 trial data in Barth syndrome and heart failure demonstrate improved exercise capacity and cardiac function.
Also known as: Elamipretide, MTP-131, Bendavia
Clinical trial efficacy
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Research relevance
Side effects & safety
Contraindications
Consult a healthcare provider before use if any of these apply to you.
Key studies
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Szeto HH — First-in-class cardiolipin-protective compound for mitochondrial bioenergetics
SS-31 selectively binds cardiolipin on inner mitochondrial membrane; prevents peroxidation; protects cytochrome c function
PubMed 2014 -
FORZINITY (elamipretide HCl) Prescribing Information
FDA accelerated approval Sept 2025 for Barth syndrome (FORZINITY, elamipretide HCl, NDA 215244). First FDA-approved mitochondria-targeted therapeutic.
FDA label 2025 -
Thompson WR et al. — TAZPOWER: elamipretide Phase 2/3 in Barth syndrome
Pivotal TAZPOWER trial: improvements in 6MWT, muscle strength, and patient-reported outcomes
PubMed 2021 -
Thompson WR et al. — Elamipretide 168-week open-label extension in Barth syndrome
168-week OLE: cumulative +96.1 m 6MWT improvement (P=.003); improved 3D LV volumes and MLCL/CL ratios
PubMed 2024
FAQ
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