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SS-31 (Elamipretide / Bendavia)
Also known as: Elamipretide, Bendavia, MTP-131, D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2
Confidence
Updated 2026-03-18
SS-31 (elamipretide) is a mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide that selectively concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing cardiolipin and restoring electron transport chain function. Developed by Stealth BioTherapeutics, it has been studied in clinical trials for heart failure, Barth syndrome, and mitochondrial myopathy. It represents a novel approach to treating diseases of mitochondrial dysfunction.
Class
Mitochondrial-Targeted Peptide
Routes
Subcutaneous, Intravenous
Half-Life
~4 hours (human PK data from clinical trials)
SS-31 carries a net positive charge that targets it selectively to the inner mitochondrial membrane (>1000x concentration). It binds cardiolipin, a phospholipid critical for cristae structure and ETC complex organization. This stabilizes cytochrome c interaction, reduces electron leak and ROS production, restores ATP synthesis efficiency, and prevents cardiolipin peroxidation. It essentially optimizes mitochondrial bioenergetics from within.
Half-Life
~4 hours (human PK data from clinical trials)
Bioavailability
Subcutaneous: ~100% (well-absorbed). IV: 100%.
No approved indications. Research: Barth syndrome, primary mitochondrial myopathy, heart failure (HFrEF), age-related mitochondrial dysfunction, renal ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Phase III TAZPOWER trial in Barth syndrome (n=12) did not meet primary 6-minute walk test endpoint but showed improvement in secondary endpoints. EMBRACE-STEMI Phase IIa trial showed reduced infarct size trends. Phase II heart failure studies showed improved cardiac energetics. The small sample sizes in rare disease trials limit statistical power. Mechanism is well-characterized and scientifically compelling.
Human Studies
12
Animal Studies
80
Generally well-tolerated in clinical trials. Injection site reactions (subcutaneous). No dose-limiting toxicities reported at therapeutic doses. Long-term safety data limited given early-stage development. Theoretical concern about altering mitochondrial dynamics chronically.
FDA Fast Track and Orphan Drug designations for Barth syndrome. Active clinical development by Stealth BioTherapeutics (restructured after TAZPOWER). Additional trials planned.
Drug Interactions: Minimal known interactions given mitochondrial targeting. Theoretical interaction with other mitochondrial-active agents. Monitoring: Cardiac function (heart failure applications), 6-min walk test, mitochondrial biomarkers. Research Gaps: Failed primary endpoint in Barth syndrome pivotal trial raises questions about endpoint selection vs. true efficacy. Optimal patient selection criteria. Chronic dosing safety.
Subcutaneous (clinical trial dosing)
Common Range
4–40 mg/day
Timing
Once daily
Frequency
Daily
Cycling
Clinical trials: 12–28 weeks continuous treatment
Important Note
NOT FDA-approved. Doses based on clinical trial protocols. Research compound with orphan drug designation. Not available through standard compounding pharmacies.
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Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any peptide therapy. PeptideSupplierMatch does not prescribe, sell, or distribute peptides.
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