By the Banger Labs Research Team · Updated June 2026
What is SS-31?
SS-31 is a synthetic aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide with the sequence D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2, where Dmt denotes the non-standard residue 2′,6′-dimethyltyrosine. It belongs to the Szeto-Schiller (SS) peptide class developed in academic research, carries a net positive charge at physiological pH, and is structurally distinct from incretin/GLP peptides. It is referenced in the literature under the names elamipretide, MTP-131, and Bendavia.
How SS-31 is studied
In preclinical and cell-based research, SS-31 has been reported to cross the plasma membrane in an energy-independent manner and to accumulate at the inner mitochondrial membrane, where electrostatic and structural interactions with the anionic phospholipid cardiolipin have been described. Research models report associated observations on inner-membrane surface electrostatics, cristae architecture, and the organization of cardiolipin-dependent membrane components. These mechanistic observations are derived from in vitro and animal model systems and do not constitute claims of clinical effect.
Research areas
- Studied in cell-culture and preclinical models of mitochondrial bioenergetics and inner-membrane (cardiolipin) biology
- Investigated in laboratory research on oxidative-stress responses and reactive oxygen species dynamics
- Examined in animal models of cardiac mitochondrial structure and function
- Used as a research tool peptide for probing mitochondrial cristae architecture and membrane electrostatics
- Referenced in preclinical research on genetic mitochondrial disorder models (e.g., Barth syndrome murine studies)
These describe laboratory/preclinical research only. No therapeutic, medical, or efficacy claims are made.
SS-31 specifications
Handling & quality
SS-31 is held to a ≥ 99% HPLC purity standard with a Certificate of Analysis available per batch. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water and store refrigerated; handle strictly for research. See reconstitution & storage.
Frequently asked questions
What is SS-31?
SS-31 is a synthetic aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide with the sequence D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2, where Dmt denotes the non-standard residue 2′,6′-dimethyltyrosine. It belongs to the Szeto-Schiller (SS) peptide class developed in academic research, carries a net positive charge at physiological pH, and is structurally distinct from incretin/GLP peptides. It is referenced in the literature under the names elamipretide, MTP-131, and Bendavia.
Is SS-31 research use only?
Yes. SS-31 is supplied strictly for laboratory research — not for human or veterinary use, and not as a drug, food, or supplement.
Does Banger Labs provide a COA for SS-31?
Yes — a Certificate of Analysis (HPLC purity + mass-spec identity) is available per batch on request. See the COA Library.
References
- Elamipretide: A Review of Its Structure, Mechanism of Action, and Therapeutic Potential — International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2025), via PMC
- The mitochondria-targeted peptide SS-31 binds lipid bilayers and modulates surface electrostatics as a key component of its mechanism of action — Journal of Biological Chemistry (2020), via PMC
- The mitochondrially targeted peptide elamipretide (SS-31) affects ADP sensitivity in aged mitochondria by increasing uptake through the adenine nucleotide translocator (ANT) — GeroScience (2023), via PubMed
- SS-31 treatment ameliorates cardiac mitochondrial morphology and defective mitophagy in a murine model of Barth syndrome — Scientific Reports (2024), via PMC
Sources are provided for scientific reference and describe laboratory/preclinical research; they do not constitute medical advice or efficacy claims.
Shop SS-31 & related research peptides
By the Banger Labs Research Team. For research use only. Not for human or veterinary use. Not a drug, food, or cosmetic. Educational information, not medical advice.