Scientific Reference

SS-31 (Elamipretide)

Evidence profile: Human Phase 3 evidence

SS-31 (elamipretide) is a small aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide that localises to the inner mitochondrial membrane. Rather than scavenging reactive oxygen species diffusely as conventional antioxidants do, it binds cardiolipin — a phospholipid required for the structural integrity of the electron transport chain — and the published literature describes this targeted interaction in the context of mitochondrial function. SS-31 is not an approved medicine in the United Kingdom. Supplied strictly as a research compound for laboratory use.