Research-use context: This article is provided for laboratory research and educational purposes only. It is not medical, therapeutic, diagnostic, veterinary, dosing or human-use guidance.
A mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide
SS-31, also known as elamipretide, is an aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide investigated for its interaction with the inner mitochondrial membrane. Research has focused particularly on cardiolipin, a phospholipid important to cristae organisation and respiratory-chain function.
Membrane biophysics and bioenergetics
Experimental studies indicate that SS-31 can interact with cardiolipin-containing membranes and alter membrane surface electrostatics. This provides a mechanistic framework for laboratory investigation of mitochondrial structure and bioenergetics.
Define the research context
Mechanistic, animal and clinical evidence should not be conflated. A research catalogue should describe the molecule and evidence accurately without converting those findings into consumer health claims.
References
Mitchell W et al. The mitochondria-targeted peptide SS-31 binds lipid bilayers and modulates surface electrostatics. J Biol Chem. 2020. PMID 32273339. Sabbah HN et al. Contemporary insights into elamipretide’s mitochondrial mechanism of action and therapeutic effects. Biomed Pharmacother. 2025. PMID 40294492.