SS31
Elamipretide
SS-31 is a mitochondrial-targeting peptide designed to protect and repair mitochondria, the energy-producing structures inside your cells. As we age, mitochondria become less efficient and more prone to damage, which contributes to fatigue, cellular aging, and degenerative diseases. SS-31 works by binding to a specific lipid called cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it helps stabilize mitochondrial structure, reduce oxidative stress, and boost energy production (ATP) at the cellular level.
Because of its unique ability to reach and protect mitochondria, SS-31 has shown promise in improving muscle endurance, heart function, brain performance, and even vision in age-related conditions. It’s being studied for use in age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, heart failure, and mitochondrial myopathies. In wellness and longevity protocols, SS-31 is used to support cellular energy, reduce inflammation, and improve recovery, particularly in people experiencing fatigue, burnout, or age-related decline. It is considered one of the most advanced mitochondrial-protective peptides currently under investigation.
Protocols
1. Mitochondrial Health & Anti-Ageing
Dosage: 5–10 mg per injection, once daily
Cycle: 4–8 weeks, with reassessment
Administration: Subcutaneous (SC) or Intravenous (IV) injection
Stacking: Can be used with NAD+ precursors (NR/NMN), MOTS-c, or Urolithin A for enhanced mitochondrial function
Expected Benefits: Increased ATP production, reduced oxidative stress, enhanced cellular energy
2. Muscle Recovery & Exercise Performance
Dosage: 5–10 mg per injection, 30 minutes before or after training
Cycle: 6–8 weeks, with breaks as needed
Administration: SC or IV injection
Stacking: Pairs well with BPC-157 and TB-500 for muscle repair
Expected Benefits: Faster recovery, reduced muscle fatigue, improved endurance
3. Neuroprotection & Cognitive Function
Dosage: 5 mg per injection, once daily
Cycle: 4–6 weeks, reassess as needed
Administration: SC injection
Stacking: Can be combined with Semax, Dihexa, or Cerebrolysin for cognitive enhancement
Expected Benefits: Reduced neuroinflammation, improved mitochondrial support in neurons, enhanced cognitive resilience
4. Cardiovascular Protection & Heart Health
Dosage: 5–10 mg per injection, once daily
Cycle: Long-term use possible, with periodic breaks
Administration: SC or IV injection
Stacking: Often combined with CoQ10, PQQ, and Taurine for heart health
Expected Benefits: Improved cardiac function, reduced oxidative damage, enhanced mitochondrial efficiency in the heart
5. Chronic Fatigue & Mitochondrial Myopathies
Dosage: 5–10 mg per injection, once or twice daily
Cycle: 8–12 weeks, reassessment required
Administration: SC or IV injection
Stacking: Works well with MOTS-c, ATP boosters, and Carnitine
Expected Benefits: Increased energy levels, reduced muscle weakness, improved cellular function
Further reading
SS-31 is unique among mitochondria-targeting compounds because it directly binds to cardiolipin, preventing mitochondrial dysfunction and promoting energy efficiency. It works by:
Reducing mitochondrial oxidative stress (minimising damage from reactive oxygen species (ROS))
Stabilising electron transport chain (ETC) function, allowing for more efficient ATP production
Enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis (supporting the creation of new, healthy mitochondria)
These effects make SS-31 highly relevant for age-related diseases, metabolic disorders, and degenerative conditions. Studies suggest that SS-31 can reverse mitochondrial dysfunction in diseases like Alzheimer’s, ALS, and heart failure, where energy deficits contribute to disease progression.
Early human trials have indicated significant benefits in mitochondrial myopathies and heart failure, leading to its current investigation in clinical studies. However, further research is needed to fully establish its long-term safety and efficacy.
While SS-31 appears highly promising, its availability is limited as it is still undergoing clinical trials, and it is not widely accessible for general use.
References
- Szeto, H. H., & Schiller, P. W. (2011). "Novel therapies targeting inner mitochondrial membrane—The discovery of Szeto-Schiller peptides." Pharmaceutical Research, 28(11), 2669–2672.
Hou, Y., et al. (2019). "Mitochondria-targeted peptides in ageing and disease." Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 20(4), 267–280.
Zhao, K., et al. (2014). "Elamipretide (SS-31) improves mitochondrial bioenergetics and survival in models of mitochondrial disease." Journal of Molecular Medicine, 92(2), 123–134.
Campbell, M. D., et al. (2021). "Mitochondrial-targeted therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases." Progress in Neurobiology, 204, 102125.
Szeto, H. H. (2020). "Therapeutic potential of SS-31 peptide in mitochondrial dysfunction and disease." Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, 1264, 61–76.