What Is SS-31?
SS-31 is a synthetic mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide also known as elamipretide and MTP-131. Scientific research has focused particularly on its interactions with cardiolipin and the inner mitochondrial membrane.
Earlier research literature may also refer to the compound as Bendavia. PubChem identifies parent elamipretide under CID 11764719, CAS 736992-21-5, molecular formula C32H49N9O5, and molecular weight of approximately 639.8 g/mol.
SS-31 at a Glance
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Research name | SS-31 |
| Generic name | Elamipretide |
| Additional research name | MTP-131 |
| Earlier development name | Bendavia |
| Compound class | Synthetic tetrapeptide |
| PubChem CID | 11764719 |
| CAS | 736992-21-5 |
| Formula | C32H49N9O5 |
| Molecular weight | Approximately 639.8 g/mol |
Why Is It Called SS-31?
SS-31 originated within the Szeto-Schiller peptide research family, a group of small aromatic-cationic peptides studied for mitochondrial targeting. The designation reflects the compound’s research history rather than a conventional systematic chemical name.
Are SS-31, Elamipretide and MTP-131 the Same?
In scientific literature, these terms generally refer to the same underlying peptide identity. Researchers should still distinguish parent elamipretide from specific salt or counterion forms because chemical representation and expected molecular mass can differ.
What Is Cardiolipin?
Cardiolipin is a specialized phospholipid concentrated within the inner mitochondrial membrane. It contributes to membrane architecture and interacts with proteins involved in mitochondrial electron transport and bioenergetics.
Earlier experimental work investigated selective interactions between SS-31 and cardiolipin-containing membrane systems. Later biophysical research expanded this picture by examining membrane surface charge, lipid packing and cardiolipin-dependent protein organization.
How Does SS-31 Interact With Mitochondrial Membranes?
Modern work increasingly describes SS-31 through membrane biophysics rather than a single simplified mechanism. Research has examined partitioning into membrane interfacial regions, effects on membrane electrostatics, and relationships with cardiolipin-dependent protein assemblies.
SS-31 and Mitochondrial Protein Interactions
Research using chemical cross-linking and mass spectrometry has investigated mitochondrial proteins associated with SS-31 and cardiolipin-rich environments. This provides another line of evidence connecting the peptide with mitochondrial membrane organization.
Is Elamipretide FDA Approved?
Yes, but only in a specific pharmaceutical context. On September 19, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted accelerated approval to Forzinity (elamipretide) for a defined Barth syndrome indication. Nexigen SS-31 is presented as a laboratory research material and is not represented as Forzinity.
Why Material Form Matters
Public chemical databases separately represent parent elamipretide and salt- or counterion-associated materials. Researchers should therefore verify the actual material form before comparing CAS numbers, formulas or mass-spectrometric expectations.
Related SS-31 Research Resources
- SS-31 10 mg Research Material
- SS-31 Sequence, Structure and Molecular Characteristics
- SS-31 Research in 2026
- SS-31 Analytical Testing
Selected Scientific References
FOR LABORATORY RESEARCH ONLY. NOT FOR HUMAN OR VETERINARY USE OR CONSUMPTION.
Continue the SS-31 Research Cluster
View SS-31 10 mg Research Material for the product-specific research-material page.
