SS-31 Overview
Mechanism of Action
SS-31 (Elamipretide, also known as Bendavia/MTP-131) is a cell-permeable tetrapeptide (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) that selectively targets cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane. By stabilizing cardiolipin-cytochrome c interactions, it optimizes electron transport chain efficiency, reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) production at the source, and prevents mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening. Unlike traditional antioxidants, SS-31 concentrates 5,000-fold in mitochondria.
~4 hours
Timing
Morning preferred
Injection Site
Subcutaneous, abdomen or thigh
Food
No restrictions
Common Stacks
- NAD+ — Complementary mitochondrial support (electron transport + cofactor)
- MOTS-c — AMPK activation + mitochondrial signaling
- CoQ10 (oral) — Additional electron carrier support
SS-31 Dosing Protocol
Standard Protocol
4–12 weeks0.5–5 mg daily
Most research uses daily dosing. Some protocols use 5-on/2-off.
Loading Protocol
4 weeks5 mg daily
Higher dose for initial mitochondrial restoration. Followed by maintenance.
SS-31 Expected Timeline
Week 1–2
Improved energy levels; reduced exercise fatigue
Week 3–4
Enhanced exercise capacity; better cellular energy
Month 2–3
Improved mitochondrial biomarkers; sustained energy
Month 3+
Potential reversal of age-related mitochondrial decline
SS-31 Side Effects
Injection site reactions
Mild headache (uncommon)
Very well tolerated in clinical trials
SS-31 Research Studies
A mitochondria-targeted peptide SS-31 mitigates aging-related arterial stiffness
Whitson JA, Martín-Pérez M, Zhang T, et al. — J Am Heart Assoc (2022)
Showed SS-31 reversed age-related arterial stiffness by improving mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress in aged mice.
PubMed: 35975550Elamipretide in patients with Barth syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Thompson WR, Hornby B, Manuel R, et al. — Genet Med (2021)
Clinical trial demonstrating elamipretide improved cardiac and skeletal muscle function in patients with mitochondrial disease (Barth syndrome).
PubMed: 33558709SS-31 FAQ
How is SS-31 different from regular antioxidants?
Traditional antioxidants (vitamin C, E) scavenge ROS after they’re produced and cannot penetrate mitochondrial membranes effectively. SS-31 concentrates 5,000x within mitochondria and prevents ROS at the source by stabilizing the electron transport chain. It’s a targeted intervention, not a general scavenger.
Is SS-31 the same as elamipretide?
Yes. SS-31, elamipretide, Bendavia, and MTP-131 all refer to the same tetrapeptide. Elamipretide is the pharmaceutical name used in clinical trials.