Description
Chemical Identity
SS-31 is a synthetic mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide with the molecular formula C32H49N9O5 and a molecular weight of approximately 639.8 Da. Originally developed as part of the Szeto-Schiller (SS) peptide family by researchers Hazel H. Szeto and Peter W. Schiller, SS-31 was designed with an alternating aromatic-cationic motif that enables cell penetration and selective mitochondrial accumulation. The amino acid sequence is D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2, where Dmt represents 2′,6′-dimethyltyrosine.
SS-31 is also known by the following designations: Elamipretide, Bendavia, MTP-131.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C32H49N9O5 |
| Molecular Weight | 639.8 Da |
| CAS Number | 736992-21-5 |
| Sequence | D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2 |
| Research Status | Phase 3 / Approved (Orphan Drug Designation) |
Research Overview
SS-31 has been investigated in clinical trials spanning cardiology, mitochondrial myopathy, and rare genetic mitochondrial diseases, with particular focus on Barth syndrome. The primary mechanism of action involves selective accumulation within the inner mitochondrial membrane through electrostatic binding to cardiolipin, a signature phospholipid essential for electron transport chain (ETC) supercomplex assembly and oxidative phosphorylation efficiency.
Key areas of published research include:
- Barth Syndrome: The TAZPOWER Phase 3 trial evaluated SS-31 in 12 patients with genetically confirmed Barth syndrome. The study demonstrated trends toward improved six-minute walk test distance and statistically significant improvements in the five-times sit-to-stand test. Open-label extension data showed sustained improvements with continued treatment.
- Heart Failure: A Phase 2 trial in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) demonstrated improvements in left ventricular end-systolic volume and trends toward improved cardiac output. The EMBRACE STEMI Phase 2a trial showed trends toward reduced infarct size on cardiac MRI following ischemia-reperfusion injury.
- Mitochondrial Myopathy: A Phase 2 trial in patients with genetically confirmed primary mitochondrial myopathy demonstrated numerical improvements in six-minute walk test distance, supporting the feasibility of mitochondrial targeting in this genetically heterogeneous population.
SS-31 has received Orphan Drug Designation and Fast Track Designation from the FDA for Barth syndrome. The evidence base includes multiple Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials in human subjects, representing one of the most advanced clinical development programs for a mitochondria-targeted peptide.
Specifications
All SS-31 supplied by Prescott Bio Canada is manufactured to research-grade standards.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Purity | >98% (HPLC) |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Storage (lyophilized) | -20°C, protected from light |
| Storage (reconstituted) | 2-8°C, use within 30 days |
| Solubility | Soluble in bacteriostatic water, sterile water, or normal saline |
Each vial is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting purity, identity, and endotoxin testing.
Research Applications
SS-31 is supplied exclusively for in vitro and in vivo laboratory research. Published experimental applications include:
- Investigation of cardiolipin-mediated electron transport chain stabilization in mitochondrial disease models
- Assessment of cardioprotective effects in ischemia-reperfusion injury models
- Study of mitochondrial bioenergetics and supercomplex assembly in aging tissues
- Evaluation of mitochondrial membrane potential restoration in cells with depolarized mitochondria
Researchers should consult the primary literature and institutional review protocols before designing experiments with SS-31.
Storage and Handling
Lyophilized powder: Store at -20°C in the original sealed vial, protected from light and moisture. Under these conditions, SS-31 maintains stability for up to 24 months.
Reconstituted solution: Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water or sterile water to the desired concentration. Store reconstituted SS-31 at 2-8°C and use within 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Handling precautions: This product is intended for research use only (RUO). Not for human or veterinary diagnostic or therapeutic use. Handle using standard laboratory safety practices including appropriate PPE.