Supplement Scholar
Mitochondrial / Longevity

SS-31

Research compound. This is not a dietary supplement. Unless it is identified as an approved prescription drug, it is not approved by the FDA for human use. This page summarizes published research for education only; we do not sell it or link to sellers.

SS-31. Mitochondria-targeted peptide that binds cardiolipin to preserve electron-transport efficiency.

How it works. Binds cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, preventing peroxidation, preserving cristae architecture, and improving ATP yield per oxygen consumed.

What the research supports. 2 graded claims. Strongest: Targeted mitochondrial protection (preclinical).

Hormonal impact. Effects on Mitochondrial ROS, ATP per O2 efficiency, Inflammatory signaling.

Side effects and interactions. 0 medication interactions listed. Serious: Trial outcomes mixed; not approved as a treatment.

Stacking. Pairs well with Mitochondrial-supportive cofactors (CoQ10, B vitamins). Avoid combining with Unsupervised long-term use.

Common forms. Available as Subcutaneous injection.

Community. Experiences from people who have tried SS-31. Anecdotes are not medical advice.

SS-31. Mitochondria-targeted peptide that binds cardiolipin to preserve electron-transport efficiency.

Molecular structureC32H49N9O5 · 639.8 g/mol

What it is

SS-31 is a synthetic tetrapeptide that selectively accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane and binds cardiolipin, stabilizing electron-transport-chain organization.

Also called

Elamipretide

How it works

Binds cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, preventing peroxidation, preserving cristae architecture, and improving ATP yield per oxygen consumed.

Pathways

  • Cardiolipin stabilization
  • Reduced mitochondrial ROS
  • Improved ATP per O2 ratio

Effects

  • +Mitochondrial ATP production optimizes
  • ↓Mitochondrial ROS leak decreases
  • +Cardiac and ocular tissues with high ATP demand supports

What the research supports

Targeted mitochondrial protectionpreclinical
Clinical-trial pipeline in serious mitochondrial conditionspreclinical

Strong: consistent results across large trials or meta-analyses. Moderate: several trials, mostly positive. Limited: small or mixed studies. Preclinical: animal or cell research only.

Hormonal impact

↓Mitochondrial ROSdecreases
↑ATP per O2 efficiencyincreases
↓Inflammatory signalingdecreases

Side effects & interactions

Common side effects

  • Injection-site reactions

Serious

  • Trial outcomes mixed; not approved as a treatment

No notable medication interactions listed.

Check any supplement–medication combination with your pharmacist before starting.

Combines with

Pairs well

  • Mitochondrial-supportive cofactors (CoQ10, B vitamins)Substrate adequacy supports the same machinery.

Avoid combining

  • Unsupervised long-term useSafety profile not fully characterized.

Common forms

  • Subcutaneous injection

Discussion

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