SS-31 (Elamipretide)

SS-31 (Elamipretide, MTP-131) is a synthetic tetrapeptide of the Szeto-Schiller (SS) class with the sequence D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2, incorporating alternating aromatic (2',6'-dimethyltyrosine, phenylalanine) and cationic (D-arginine, lysine) residues. This alternating motif creates an amphipathic structure that concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane independently of membrane potential — a critical research advantage over potential-dependent mitochondrial targeting approaches such as triphenylphosphonium conjugates.

Molecular formula: C32H52N12O6 | Molecular weight: 664.84 g/mol | CAS: 736992-21-5 | Sequence: D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2 | Peptide class: Szeto-Schiller (SS) | Purity: greater than or equal to 98% as verified by HPLC | Form: Lyophilised powder | Appearance: White to off-white lyophilised powder | Storage: -20°C desiccated

SS-31 targets cardiolipin — a dimeric phospholipid found almost exclusively in the inner mitochondrial membrane that is essential for electron transport chain supercomplex assembly, cytochrome c anchoring, and ATP synthase dimerisation. Szeto (British Journal of Pharmacology, 2014) reviewed cardiolipin as the primary SS-31 target; Birk et al. (JASN, 2013) examined re-energisation of ischaemic mitochondria via cardiolipin interaction. SS-31 can target depolarised mitochondria — those found in ischaemia and pathological states — making it distinctly useful versus potential-dependent agents.

Research applications include cardiolipin protection studies, OXPHOS efficiency measurements, ROS production assays in isolated mitochondria, ischaemia-reperfusion injury models, and comparative mitochondrial biology alongside MOTS-c and NAD+.

Supplied as a lyophilised powder. Reconstitute in sterile water. Store at -20°C. For laboratory and analytical research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use.