Are you aware of mitochondria? If not, we’ll help you understand. Mitochondria are tiny, membrane-bound structures found in nearly every body cell. They are known as the “powerhouses” of the cell, as their main job is to produce energy.
These organelles are believed to convert nutrients like fats, sugars, and proteins into adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the key currency that your cells utilize to function properly.
But how is SS-31 related to these organelles? SS-31 peptide is used to protect mitochondrial cells. But how does it work? What are its benefits? And most importantly, what is the appropriate dosage? We answer all these questions in the following blog. So, keep reading the blog.
What is SS-31 Peptide?
Elamipretide, also known as SS-31, is a synthetic tetrapeptide (composed of the amino acids D-Arg-dimethylTyr-Lys-Phe-NH2 ). It targets and protects the mitochondria from damage. It has been investigated in clinical trials for conditions related to mitochondrial dysfunction, including neurodegenerative disease and age-related muscle decline.
It is designed to stabilize cardiolipin, a phospholipid unique to the inner mitochondrial membrane, which is essential for optimal mitochondrial function.
How Does SS-31 Work?
SS-31 works in different ways to restore energy production and reduce damage in the inner mitochondrial membrane. One of the ways is that it directly targets the mitochondria.
It crosses the cell membranes and enters straight into the mitochondria. From there, it finds and binds to a unique fat molecule called cardiolipin. This lipid is critical for keeping mitochondrial membranes stable and healthy.
Another way it is reported to work is by stabilizing the Cardiolipin. Cardiolipin helps maintain the structure of the mitochondrial inner membrane, which houses the electron transport chain. When cardiolipin is damaged (due to aging, stress, or disease), energy production drops, and harmful molecules like reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase.
Potential SS-31 Benefits
The following are the potential benefits of SS-31:
Enhanced Mitochondrial Energy Production
- Boosts ATP output by improving the efficiency of the electron transport chain.
- Especially beneficial for energy-demanding tissues like the heart, brain, kidneys, and muscles.
Reduced Oxidative Stress
- Lowers the production of harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS).
- Protects cells from oxidative damage and inflammation.
Improved Muscle Strength and Endurance
- Has shown potential in age-related muscle decline (sarcopenia) and mitochondrial myopathies.
- May increase physical performance and reduce fatigue.
Cardioprotective Effects
- Shown to improve heart function in patients with heart failure and ischemic injury
- Helps preserve mitochondrial integrity in cardiac cells.
Neuroprotective Potential
- May protect neurons in conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or optic neuropathies by enhancing mitochondrial health.
Potential Anti-Aging Effects
- Supports healthy mitochondrial function, a key factor in cellular aging.
- Being explored in longevity and biohacking communities for its potential to slow down age-related decline.
Potential Side Effects of SS-31
The following are the side effects reported by the users.
- Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, pain)
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Transient increases in liver enzymes
- Mild gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., diarrhea, stomach discomfort)
Therapeutic Potential of SS-31 (Elamipretide)
Mitochondrial Diseases
- Example: Primary mitochondrial myopathy (PMM)
- May improve muscle function, reduce fatigue, and enhance exercise tolerance.
Eye Diseases
- Examples: Dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD), Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON)
- Protects retinal cells and may preserve or improve vision.
Kidney Diseases
- Example: Acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic kidney disease (CKD)
- Protects renal mitochondria and reduces oxidative damage.
Neurodegenerative Diseases (under investigation)
- Examples: Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease
- Aims to restore mitochondrial function and reduce neuronal degeneration.
Skeletal Muscle Disorders & Aging
- Improves muscle performance and endurance, being studied for sarcopenia and age-related physical decline.
Where to Buy SS-31 Online?
Multiple online shops offer you SS-31 at reasonable prices. However, the top 3 are as follows:
- Purerawz
- Behemothlabz
- BC9.co
All these shops offer 1st and 3rd-party tested peptides along with proper Certificate of Analysis (COAs). Plus, they offer quick delivery of their products. The shops also offer discounts and deals on various special occasions.
Note: All these shops offer SS-31 peptide for research purposes only.
Winding Up
SS-31 (elamipretide) is a mitochondria-targeting peptide that improves energy production and reduces oxidative stress by stabilizing cardiolipin. It shows promise in treating mitochondrial diseases, eye disorders, and age-related conditions. SS-31 is well-tolerated in clinical trials and remains under investigation for various therapeutic applications.
