SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a synthetic, cell-permeable tetrapeptide designed to target the inner mitochondrial membrane. In laboratory settings, it binds specifically to cardiolipin, a unique phospholipid essential for maintaining mitochondrial cristae structure and electron transport chain efficiency. By stabilising this interaction, SS-31 reduces electron leak and subsequent reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation during cellular respiration. As a premium research chemical, UK laboratories utilise this peptide to investigate mitochondrial bioenergetics and cellular responses to oxidative stress. Advanced peptide synthesis techniques ensure the structural integrity of the D-amino acid residues, which grant the molecule resistance to proteolytic degradation. Maintaining molecular stability in aqueous environments, as detailed on PubChem, requires precise reconstitution protocols, ensuring researchers can accurately assess its role in preventing cytochrome c peroxidase activity. The peptide provides a robust in-vitro model for studying cellular respiration and mitochondrial membrane dynamics.
Public search data clusters around phrases like "mitochondrial healing" and "anti-ageing" when querying SS-31 (Elamipretide). Current literature uses these terms to index observations in isolated cellular models, not to endorse human trials. Research trends focus on the peptide's structural interactions in controlled lab environments. Amino Peptides supplies this compound strictly as a lyophilised laboratory reagent.
- Selective binding to cardiolipin (CL) on the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) in isolated organelle models.
- Stabilisation of the cardiolipin-cytochrome c complex within cell-free systems.
- Modulation of electron transport chain (ETC) supercomplexes, specifically Complex III and Complex IV.
- Prevention of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening during structural stability experiments.
- Reduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by optimising electron transfer across the mitochondrial inner membrane.
- Restoration of ATP synthesis rates and mitochondrial bioenergetics in cell-free systems subjected to ischemic stress.
- Attenuation of cardiolipin peroxidation, preserving membrane curvature and cristae morphology in cultured cellular models.
- Suppression of pro-apoptotic signalling cascades by preventing the cytosolic release of cytochrome c from the intermembrane space.
Technical Specifications
Variant Breakdown
- 10mg Vial: Ideal for initial in-vitro screening, laboratory evaluation-response curve establishment, and short-term cellular assays.
- 50mg Vial: Suited for high-throughput screening, longitudinal cell culture studies, and extensive biochemical characterisation.
Quality Assurance
- HPLC Analysis: High-performance liquid chromatography ensures a purity level exceeding 99%, removing synthesis by-products.
- Mass Spectrometry: Confirms the precise molecular weight of 639.8 g/mol, verifying the exact sequence and structural identity.
- Lyophilised Form: Supplied as a stable, freeze-dried solid to maximise shelf life and preserve peptide integrity before reconstitution.
- Laboratory Characterisation: Rigorously tested for endotoxin limits (<0.5 EU/mg) to prevent interference in sensitive cell culture models.
Research Mechanism
- Cardiolipin Binding: Selectively interacts with cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane to stabilise cristae architecture.
- Electron Transport Optimisation: Enhances the efficiency of the electron transport chain by promoting optimal cytochrome c function.
- ROS Reduction: Mitigates the generation of reactive oxygen species by preventing electron leakage during cellular respiration.
- Proteolytic Resistance: The inclusion of D-amino acids in its structure prevents rapid enzymatic degradation in cellular assays.
- Apoptosis Inhibition: Prevents the conversion of cytochrome c into a peroxidase, thereby blocking the initiation of apoptotic signalling cascades.
Reconstitution & Storage Data
| Vial Strength | Solvent Added | Resulting Concentration |
| 10mg | 1 mL Bacteriostatic Reconstitution Solution | 10.00 mg/mL |
| 10mg | 2 mL Bacteriostatic Reconstitution Solution | 5.00 mg/mL |
| 50mg | 1 mL Bacteriostatic Reconstitution Solution | 50.00 mg/mL |
| 50mg | 2 mL Bacteriostatic Reconstitution Solution | 25.00 mg/mL |
- Lyophilised (Powder): Store in a standard refrigerator (2-8°C) for up to 3 months. For long-term preservation, freeze at -20°C.
- Reconstituted (Liquid): Store at 2-8°C (Refrigerated).
Scientific References
Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Bioenergetics: "Cardiolipin-dependent properties of the mitochondrial-targeted peptide SS-31" View Study
Journal of Cellular and Molecular laboratory evaluation: "SS-31 protects against oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in in-vitro models" View Study
Frontiers in Pharmacology: "Mitochondrial-targeted peptide SS-31: mechanism of action and structural insights" View Study
Oxidative laboratory evaluation and Cellular Longevity: "The role of Elamipretide in modulating reactive oxygen species production" View Study
Peptides: "Stability and cellular uptake of D-amino acid containing mitochondrial peptides" View Study
