Overview SS-31 (elamipretide) is a synthetic, aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide belonging to the Szeto-Schiller (SS) family of mitochondria-targeted peptides. Its sequence — D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH₂ — alternates cationic residues (D-Arg, Lys) with aromatic residues (Dmt, Phe), an architectural pattern that confers selective, high-affinity binding to cardiolipin (CL) on the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM).[1][2] Discovery: SS-31 was identified serendipitously by Dr. Hazel Szeto (Weill Cornell Medica

How does SS-31 work? What is its mechanism of action?

Mechanism of Action Primary Target: Cardiolipin (CL) on the Inner Mitochondrial Membrane SS-31 does NOT bind to a protein receptor. Instead, it binds directly to cardiolipin (CL) — an anionic phospholipid unique to the IMM that is critical for organizing the electron transport chain (ETC) into functional supercomplexes (respirasomes). The binding is driven by two forces:[1][2] Electrostatic: D-Arg and Lys (cationic residues) bind the anionic phosphate head groups of CL Hydrophobic: Dmt and Phe (

What are the research applications of SS-31?

Research Applications SS-31/elamipretide has been investigated across 10+ indication categories, with particular depth in cardiovascular, renal, ophthalmic, and aging research: Barth Syndrome (Genetically-Confirmed Cardiolipin Deficiency) — TAFAZZIN gene mutations → cardiolipin deficiency → mitochondrial dysfunction. FDA Accelerated Approval (Sept 2025) for Forzinity™ based on TAZPOWER OLE data: +96.1 m 6MWT improvement (p=0.003) over 168 weeks; improved muscle strength and LV stroke volume.[3][

What does the research summary say about SS-31?

Preclinical & Clinical Research Summary Key Preclinical Studies StudyModelKey FindingsRef Sabbah et al. (2016)Dogs, microembolization HF — 0.5 mg/kg SC × 3 moLVEF 30%→36% (p[6] Dai et al. (2013)C57BL/6 mice TAC — osmotic minipump × 4 wkFibrosis reduced ~5% vs ~15% control (p=0.005); protected 84% of mitochondrial proteins[14] Campbell et al. (2019)26-mo female C57BL/6 mice — 3 mg/kg/day SC × 8 wkTreadmill endurance nearly doubled (p[4] Chiao et al. (2020)Aged C57BL/6 mice — cardiac dysfunction m

How should SS-31 be stored?

Refrigerated 2–8°C (commercial Forzinity sterile solution); lyophilized research-grade: -20°C to -80°C, desiccated. Shelf life 48 months (refrigerated commercial form). Protect from light and heat. Single-patient-use vials.

Storing SS-31: Best Practices

17 PubMed CitationsExpert ReviewedGMP CertifiedLast Reviewed: March 2026

Recommended Laboratory Storage Conditions

Commercial (Forzinity sterile solution): Refrigerate at 2–8°C (36–46°F). Shelf life 48 months. Protect from light and freezing. Single-use vials — no preservative for multi-dose use.

Research-Grade (Lyophilized Powder): Store at -20°C to -80°C in desiccated, airtight container. Stable at room temperature for limited time during shipping.

Reconstitution: Use sterile water or bacteriostatic water. Do not shake vigorously. Reconstituted solution: refrigerate at 4°C; use within 24–48 hours or aliquot and freeze at -80°C.

Formulations available: 280 mg/3.5 mL (80 mg/mL) sterile SC injection solution (commercial); lyophilized powder (research-grade); IV formulation (clinical trials); topical ophthalmic solution (investigational).

Salt forms: Acetate (clinical development/research) vs. HCl (commercial Forzinity); bioequivalence established between forms.

Editorial Research Note

“Preclinical & Clinical Research Summary Key Preclinical Studies StudyModelKey FindingsRef Sabbah et al.”

Pure U.S. Peptides Research Standards TeamInternal editorial group summarising published peptide research for an audience of qualified independent investigators.

References

Related research

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This content is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Products are furnished for in-vitro studies only and are not medicines, drugs, or supplements. Not approved by the FDA to prevent, treat, or cure any condition.

Storing SS-31: Best Practices

Recommended Laboratory Storage Conditions

References

Related Research Questions

Related research

Storing SS-31: Best Practices

Recommended Laboratory Storage Conditions

References

Related Research Questions

Related research