SS-31
Elamipretide / SS-31
A mitochondria-targeted peptide that stabilizes cardiolipin and restores electron transport chain function. Investigated for age-related mitochondrial dysfunction.
How SS-31 Works
SS-31 (elamipretide) is a cell-permeable tetrapeptide that selectively targets the inner mitochondrial membrane by binding to cardiolipin, a phospholipid critical for electron transport chain organization. By stabilizing cardiolipin structure, SS-31 optimizes electron flow through the respiratory complexes, reduces electron leak and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and restores ATP synthesis efficiency. This makes it a first-in-class mitochondrial-targeted therapeutic that addresses the root cause of age-related cellular energy decline rather than just scavenging free radicals after they are produced.
📊 Evidence by Outcome
Targets inner mitochondrial membrane. Strong preclinical evidence for restoring mitochondrial function in aged tissues.
14 studies • Consistency: Moderate • Effect: Moderate
Key Research
Peer-Reviewed Evidence • 3 Citations
SS-31 peptide reverses the mitochondrial dysfunction and improves cardiac function in aged mice
Dai DF et al.•J Am Coll Cardiol•2011•PMID: 21636032
Key Finding: SS-31 reverses age-related mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiac tissue, restoring mitochondrial energetics comparable to young hearts.
View on PubMedElamipretide (SS-31) improves mitochondrial dysfunction, synaptic and memory impairment in Alzheimer's disease models
Reddy PH et al.•J Alzheimers Dis•2018•PMID: 30149452
Key Finding: SS-31 reduces oxidative damage and improves synaptic function in Alzheimer's disease models, showing neuroprotective promise.
View on PubMedMitochondria-targeted peptide SS-31 ameliorates renal injury via reducing inflammation and oxidative stress
Liu D et al.•Oxid Med Cell Longev•2019•PMID: 31949881
Key Finding: SS-31 protects kidneys from ischemia-reperfusion injury by targeting the inner mitochondrial membrane and reducing ROS production.
View on PubMedCitations sourced from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and peer-reviewed journals. Study findings are summarized for accessibility. Always consult the original publication for full methodology and results.
Side Effects & Safety
Interactions & Contraindications
Drug Interactions
- •May interact with other mitochondrial-targeted therapies (additive effects on electron transport chain)
- •Theoretical interaction with statins (both affect mitochondrial function)
- •Limited documented drug interactions in clinical trials
Supplement Interactions
- •Synergistic with CoQ10 and PQQ for mitochondrial support
- •Compatible with NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) for comprehensive mitochondrial optimization
- •May complement alpha-lipoic acid for antioxidant mitochondrial support
Food & Timing
- •Injectable form not affected by food intake
- •No known food interactions
- •Can be administered at any time of day
Who Should Avoid
- •Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
- •Children under 18 (unless under clinical trial for mitochondrial disease)
- •Known hypersensitivity to the compound
- •Severe renal impairment (limited clearance data)
📋 Protocol Snapshot
Protocols are for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment protocol.
Cost Guide
AED 1,500-4,000/month
Limited UAE availability. Costs may vary for international sourcing.
Frequently Asked Questions
SS-31 (elamipretide) is available through a limited number of longevity-focused clinics in the UAE. It remains primarily a research compound and is not widely available. Some clinics may source it through compounding pharmacies.
Improvements in energy and exercise tolerance may be noticed within 1-4 weeks. Measurable changes in mitochondrial biomarkers can take longer. In clinical trials for heart failure, benefits were observed within 4-12 weeks.
SS-31 works at a fundamentally different level — it stabilizes the structural organization of the electron transport chain at the inner mitochondrial membrane, while CoQ10 serves as an electron carrier. SS-31 addresses the root structural cause of mitochondrial dysfunction rather than supplementing a single component.
Yes. SS-31 is the research name, and elamipretide is the pharmaceutical name (developed by Stealth BioTherapeutics). It has been investigated in multiple Phase 2/3 clinical trials for Barth syndrome, mitochondrial myopathy, and heart failure.
Where to Get It (UAE)
Related Treatments
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Kamura Scores reflect a combination of research evidence, safety, accessibility, and value — they are not clinical recommendations. Research citations are provided for reference; always consult the original publications for complete study details. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Individual results may vary.