Elamipretide (SS-31): The Mitochondria-Targeted Peptide That’s Reshaping Aging Research
Elamipretide (SS-31): The Mitochondria-Targeted Peptide That’s Reshaping Aging Research
Elamipretide — also known as SS-31, MTP-131, or Bendavia — is a small mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide that selectively concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane and stabilizes cardiolipin. The compound has been studied in clinical trials for primary mitochondrial diseases, age-related macular degeneration, and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.
What makes Elamipretide unusual
Most peptides distribute through the body roughly evenly. Elamipretide concentrates ~1,000x in mitochondria — specifically binding the inner mitochondrial membrane via its interaction with cardiolipin (a phospholipid unique to mitochondria).
That mitochondrial targeting is the entire mechanistic basis. Where general antioxidants address oxidative stress broadly, Elamipretide addresses it specifically at the source.
How Elamipretide works
The peptide stabilizes cardiolipin, which protects the structural integrity of the inner mitochondrial membrane. The downstream effect is preserved electron transport chain function — better ATP production, less reactive oxygen species generation.
In aging models, Elamipretide reverses some markers of mitochondrial dysfunction in skeletal muscle, brain, and cardiac tissue.
Clinical trial landscape
Elamipretide has been studied in: primary mitochondrial myopathy (MMPOWER trials), age-related macular degeneration (ReCLAIM trials), and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HF-pEF). Results have been mixed — positive on some endpoints, negative on others — illustrating the difficulty of mitochondrial trials.
FDA approval has not yet been granted for any indication. The compound remains in active clinical development.
Where Elamipretide fits in the research peptide landscape
Among the mitochondrially-active research compounds, Elamipretide is unique in its targeting specificity. MOTS-c (mitochondrial-derived peptide) addresses a different aspect of mitochondrial signaling. NAD+ addresses electron-carrier supply.
For researchers studying mitochondrial dysfunction in aging, Elamipretide, MOTS-c, and NAD+ map onto three different points in the same biological system.
Related at LiveWell
MOTS-c · NAD+ · Peptide glossary
Frequently asked questions
What is Elamipretide also called?
Elamipretide has multiple names in the literature: SS-31 (the original Stealth research designation), MTP-131, and Bendavia. All refer to the same tetrapeptide.
How does Elamipretide concentrate in mitochondria?
The peptide’s positive charge and aromatic structure cause it to bind selectively to cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane. The result is ~1,000x concentration in mitochondria vs cytoplasm.
Is Elamipretide FDA-approved?
Not yet. The compound is in active clinical development for mitochondrial myopathy, AMD, and heart failure. Results have been mixed across trials.
For laboratory and research use only. LiveWell Peptides products are not intended for human consumption, injection, topical application, or any other administration to the human body. This article is informational and not medical advice.