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AUDWhat Is SS-31 (Elamipretide)?
Research Use Only: SS-31 (Elamipretide) is intended strictly for in-vitro laboratory research purposes only. Not for human consumption, medical treatment, or veterinary use. Read our full disclaimer.
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a synthetic tetrapeptide that selectively accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it binds to cardiolipin and stabilises electron transport chain (ETC) supercomplexes. In laboratory research, SS-31 is used to investigate mitochondrial membrane integrity, ETC function, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and cellular bioenergetics in vitro.
Mechanism of Action
SS-31 carries a net positive charge that drives its selective accumulation in the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM), where it binds to cardiolipin, a phospholipid essential for ETC supercomplex organisation. By stabilising cardiolipin-cytochrome c interactions, SS-31 preserves ETC complex activity, reduces electron leak and limits mitochondrial ROS generation in laboratory models.
Cardiolipin Binding
Cardiolipin is concentrated in the IMM and plays a structural role in organising ETC complexes into supercomplexes (respirasomes). SS-31 binding to cardiolipin stabilises these supercomplexes, maintaining efficient electron transfer and reducing the electron leak that generates superoxide in experimental models.
ROS Reduction
By limiting electron leak at the ETC, SS-31 reduces mitochondrial superoxide production in laboratory models. This makes it a useful tool compound for studying the relationship between ETC integrity, ROS generation and cellular oxidative stress in vitro.
Research Applications
Mitochondrial Dysfunction Research
SS-31 is used in laboratory models of mitochondrial dysfunction to study how cardiolipin stabilisation affects ETC function, ATP synthesis and cellular viability. It is relevant to research into conditions associated with mitochondrial membrane disruption.
Ischaemia-Reperfusion Models
SS-31 is studied in ischaemia-reperfusion experimental models, where mitochondrial ROS production and ETC disruption are key pathological mechanisms. Laboratory researchers use SS-31 to investigate cardioprotective signalling pathways in these models.
Bioenergetics Research
Laboratory investigations use SS-31 to study mitochondrial membrane potential, oxygen consumption rate and ATP production in cellular models. It is a standard tool compound for bioenergetics research requiring ETC stabilisation.
Ageing & Senescence Research
Cardiolipin composition and ETC supercomplex integrity decline with cellular ageing in research models. SS-31 is used to investigate the relationship between mitochondrial membrane integrity and age-related bioenergetic decline in vitro.
Structural Characteristics
SS-31 has the sequence D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2 (MW approximately 639 Da). The alternating aromatic and basic residues confer membrane affinity and selective IMM accumulation. The dimethyltyrosine (Dmt) residue contributes antioxidant activity via electron delocalisation in the aromatic ring system.
Storage & Handling
Store lyophilised SS-31 at -20°C or -80°C, protected from light and moisture. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water prior to use. Use the Concentration Calculator to determine the correct volume for your target concentration. Follow institutional laboratory protocols for handling and disposal.
Quality & Documentation
Solatide Biosciences SS-31 is independently third-party tested to >=99% purity, verified by HPLC and mass spectrometry. A Certificate of Analysis is available on the product page.
Related Compounds
Research Use Only: All compounds are manufactured for in-vitro laboratory research and are not intended for human consumption, medical use, or veterinary applications. Full disclaimer.