SS-31
SS-31 (Elamipretide / Bendavia / MTP-131)
The mitochondrial protector
A synthetic tetrapeptide (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) that selectively targets cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane. SS-31 stabilizes electron transport chain function, reduces reactive oxygen species production at the source, and prevents mitochondrial permeability transition. Currently in clinical trials for heart failure, mitochondrial myopathy, and age-related mitochondrial dysfunction.
Key Benefits
Mitochondrial membrane stabilization and electron transport optimization
Reduction of mitochondrial ROS at the source
ATP production restoration in aged and damaged cells
Cardioprotection during ischemia-reperfusion injury
Potential slowing of age-related mitochondrial decline
Mechanism of Action
How SS-31 works
SS-31 works at the inner mitochondrial membrane — the site where cellular energy is produced and where aging-related damage accumulates:
- Cardiolipin binding — selectively concentrates 1000-5000x in mitochondria by binding cardiolipin, a phospholipid unique to the inner mitochondrial membrane. This stabilizes the structure critical for electron transport chain complex assembly.
- Electron transport chain optimization — by stabilizing cardiolipin-cytochrome c interactions, SS-31 prevents electron leak at Complex III and Complex I, reducing superoxide generation at its source rather than scavenging it after production
- Mitochondrial permeability transition prevention — inhibits mPTP opening, the event that triggers mitochondrial swelling, cytochrome c release, and apoptotic cell death during ischemia-reperfusion and oxidative stress
- ATP production restoration — in aged or damaged mitochondria, SS-31 restores coupling efficiency, increasing ATP output per oxygen consumed and reducing the energy deficit that drives cellular dysfunction
Your Genetics & SS-31
Genetic variants that affect your response
These SNPs determine how effectively SS-31 works for you specifically. A genetic peptide report identifies your variants before you start.
The Val16Ala polymorphism affects mitochondrial superoxide dismutase targeting efficiency. The Ala variant (T allele) produces less efficient SOD2 import into mitochondria, leading to higher mitochondrial oxidative stress — exactly what SS-31 counteracts by reducing ROS production at the source.
The Gly482Ser variant reduces PGC-1alpha activity and mitochondrial biogenesis. Individuals with fewer, less efficient mitochondria may benefit more from SS-31's ability to optimize existing mitochondrial function and restore coupling efficiency.
Variants near the cytochrome c gene affect expression levels. Since SS-31 stabilizes the cardiolipin-cytochrome c interaction critical for electron transport, variants affecting cytochrome c availability may modulate the magnitude of SS-31's membrane-stabilizing effect.
The -262C>T promoter variant affects catalase expression. Low catalase expressors have reduced capacity to neutralize hydrogen peroxide downstream of superoxide. SS-31 addresses this upstream by reducing superoxide production itself, potentially compensating for catalase deficiency.
Which variants do you carry?
Upload your DNA data or order a kit to find out.
Evidence & Research
50+
Published studies
Published human or robust animal studies with clear mechanistic rationale
Common Stacks
SS-31 is commonly combined with:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SS-31 used for?
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is used to protect and restore mitochondrial function. It targets the inner mitochondrial membrane where energy production occurs, stabilizing electron transport and reducing oxidative damage. It is in clinical trials for heart failure (Barth syndrome, mitochondrial cardiomyopathy) and age-related mitochondrial decline.
Does genetics affect SS-31 response?
Yes. SOD2 variants affect baseline mitochondrial antioxidant capacity — individuals with reduced SOD2 function have higher mitochondrial oxidative stress that SS-31 directly addresses. PPARGC1A variants affect mitochondrial biogenesis, determining how many mitochondria you have for SS-31 to optimize. Genetic testing identifies your mitochondrial vulnerability profile.
How is SS-31 different from antioxidant supplements?
Most antioxidants (vitamin C, E, NAC) work by scavenging free radicals after they are produced — a reactive approach. SS-31 prevents ROS generation at the source by stabilizing the electron transport chain where superoxide is produced. It also concentrates specifically in mitochondria rather than distributing throughout the cell, making it orders of magnitude more targeted.
Personalize your protocol
Does SS-31 match your DNA?
Upload your existing genetic data or order a kit. Your report scores SS-31 against your unique genetic profile — CYP metabolism, receptor variants, pathway markers — in minutes.