SS-31 (Elamipretide, D-Arg-2’6′-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH₂) is a synthetic tetrapeptide developed by Hazel Szeto that selectively targets the inner mitochondrial membrane via electrostatic interaction with cardiolipin. At a molecular weight of 640.84 g/mol, it is notable for its alternating aromatic-cationic structure, which confers both membrane permeability and antioxidant activity.

Research has examined SS-31 in models of ischemia-reperfusion injury, heart failure, skeletal muscle aging, and neurodegenerative conditions, with attention to its capacity to reduce mitochondrial ROS production without uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation. It represents a rare class of compounds that act directly at the site of electron transport dysfunction.

Each Etched Research vial contains 10mg of lyophilized powder, purity-verified at ≥99% via HPLC and mass spectrometry. Batch-specific Certificate of Analysis included.

Specifications:
– Molecular Formula: C₃₂H₄₉N₉O₅
– Molecular Weight: 640.78 g/mol
– Sequence: D-Arg-2’6′-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH₂
– Purity: ≥99% (HPLC + Mass Spectrometry)
– Form: Lyophilized powder
– Storage: -20°C (lyophilized); 4°C once reconstituted, use within 30 days

FOR IN VITRO RESEARCH USE ONLY. NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION, INGESTION, OR ANY IN VIVO USE.

Research at a Glance

What it is: A lab-made peptide built to reach inside mitochondria (also called elamipretide or MTP-131).
Researchers have studied it for: rare mitochondrial myopathy, Barth syndrome, and heart failure with reduced pumping strength.
Evidence level: Real human trials, which is rare here, but a mixed record. The two larger trials (MMPOWER-3 and PROGRESS-HF) did not hit their main goals. The positive readouts came from a short 5-day trial and a very small long-term group.
The short version: SS-31 has more human trial data than most in this category, but the record is mixed rather than a clean win. Nearly all of it ran in people with rare mitochondrial or heart disease, not healthy adults. This is a research summary, not a reason to use anything.

Read the research →