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SS-31 (also known in scientific literature as Elamipretide) is a synthetic, mitochondria-targeted research peptide that has gained significant attention among Canadian researchers. Unlike most peptides that act on cell surface receptors, SS-31’s unique structure allows it to accumulate rapidly and specifically on the inner mitochondrial membrane () [1, 2].
Its stability, purity, and predictable behaviour make it a valuable tool in cellular bioenergetics, oxidative stress modelling, and mitochondrial pathway studies. SS-31 is a cornerstone for labs exploring dysfunction related to energy, stress, and structural pathways.
This 2025–2026 guide provides Canadian researchers with:
All details here are strictly for scientific, laboratory, and in-vitro research.
Not for human or animal use.
What Is SS-31?SS-31 is a small synthetic peptide used by researchers to study mitochondria, the structures inside cells responsible for producing energy.
In laboratory models, SS-31 binds to a special lipid called cardiolipin located on the inner mitochondrial membrane. This interaction allows scientists to study:
• cellular energy production
• mitochondrial stability
• oxidative stress models
• structural membrane behavior
• metabolic signaling pathways
In simple terms, SS-31 helps researchers examine how cells produce energy and how mitochondrial structures behave under stress conditions.
Synonym: Elamipretide
Sequence: D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH₂
Molecular Formula: C32H49N9O5
Molecular Weight: 639.8 g/mol
CAS Number: 736992-21-5
Peptide Length: 4 amino acids
Classification: Mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide
SS-31 is a small, linear tetrapeptide with the sequence [3]. Its structure gives it a net positive charge which is the critical feature that drives its targeting [1.4, 3.3].
The core mechanism of SS-31 is its high-affinity interaction with the phospholipid Cardiolipin ().
CL Localization: Cardiolipin is unique because it is almost exclusively found on the Inner Mitochondrial Membrane () [1.1].
CL Function: is essential for organizing the protein complexes of the Electron Transport Chain () into supercomplexes [1.3]. Oxidative stress can peroxidize (damage) , leading to disorganization and increased Reactive Oxygen Species () production [2.3].
SS-31 Action: SS-31 is hypothesized to stabilize structure, preventing its peroxidation and maintaining the optimal organization of the [1.4].
This mechanism allows researchers to study the immediate effects of boosting ATP and bioenergetic signalling frameworks and reducing at the source, rather than just scavenging after it has formed.
Why SS-31 Is Popular in Canadian Research (2025–2026)Canadian laboratories use SS-31 because:
It has consistent in-vitro behaviour
It supports high-value mitochondrial research
It pairs well with MOTS-C studies
It complements NAD+ and metabolic assays
It is structurally stable in freeze-dried form
It is easy to incorporate into cell-based and biochemical models
SS-31 is part of a growing mitochondrial peptide cluster that includes:
This makes it a core peptide for labs exploring energy, stress, and structural pathways.
| Feature | SS-31 | MOTS-C | NAD+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Target | Inner mitochondrial membrane | Nuclear-encoded mitochondrial peptide | Redox cofactor |
| Length | 4 amino acids | 16 amino acids | Not a peptide |
| Research Focus | Cardiolipin interaction | Metabolic signaling | Cellular redox balance |
| Structural Role | Membrane stabilization modeling | Gene expression studies | Electron transfer processes |
SS-31’s uniqueness lies in direct cardiolipin binding within the inner mitochondrial membrane.
Purity Expectations for SS-31 (≥99% Standard)As with all peptides used in Canadian labs:
≥99% purity (HPLC-verified)
Batch-specific COA
Mass spectrometry identity confirmation
Proper lyophilization (uniform cake)
Clean, accurate labeling
Purity matters because mitochondrial research relies heavily on precision and reproducibility.
What a Proper SS-31 COA Should IncludeA compliant COA should list:
Researchers rely on COAs for consistent, repeatable experiments.
How SS-31 Is Shipped Within CanadaMost Canadian suppliers use:
Delivery times:
1–3 business days Canada-wide.
Domestic shipping provides:
How SS-31 Is Used in Canadian Labs (Research-Only)Permitted scientific applications include:
in-vitro mitochondrial studies oxidative stress modelling cellular bioenergetic experiments biochemical signalling assays molecular pathway analysis structural lipid research
Not permitted:
human use animal use therapeutic suggestions dosing instructions medical claims
All SS-31 usage in Canada must follow research-use-only rules.
Red Flags When Evaluating SS-31 SuppliersCanadian researchers avoid suppliers who:
Transparency is a core requirement in Canadian research.
Why Canadian Researchers Prefer Domestic SuppliersBenefits include:
Domestic sourcing avoids U.S. customs and temperature fluctuations.
Frequently Asked QuestionsIs SS-31 legal to buy in Canada?
Yes — strictly for in-vitro, laboratory, and scientific research.
Does SS-31 require a prescription?
No. It requires a legitimate research purpose, not medical authorization.
Is SS-31 allowed for human use in Canada?
No. It is not approved as a therapeutic product.
What purity should SS-31 have?
Canadian labs typically use ≥99% laboratory purity.
How fast is shipping?
Most domestic shipments arrive in 1–2 business days.
Research References [3] Elamipretide Improves Mitochondrial Function in the Failing Human Heart. J. Am. Heart Assoc. (2019).
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US Peptide Research Regulations
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DisclaimerAll information is provided for scientific and laboratory reference only.
SS-31 is intended strictly for research, laboratory, and in-vitro use, not for human or animal use.
SS-31 (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) is a water-soluble tetrapeptide that selectively targets the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM). Its primary mechanism of action is its high-affinity binding to cardiolipin, an anionic phospholipid essential for mitochondrial cristae structure. By stabilizing cardiolipin, SS-31 prevents its peroxidation and maintains the curvature of the cristae, which allows the electron transport chain (ETC) supercomplexes to organize efficiently. This results in a dramatic reduction in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and a simultaneous increase in ATP (energy) production.
2026 research highlights SS-31’s ability to reverse age-related decline in skeletal muscle. Studies in older adults show that by restoring mitochondrial redox homeostasis, SS-31 improves ATPmax (maximum ATP production) and fatigue resistance without requiring an increase in mitochondrial volume. This makes it a primary subject for research into sarcopenia, frailty, and “exercise intolerance,” as it essentially “re-energizes” existing mitochondria to function at youthful levels.
Because the brain consumes 20% of the body’s energy, it is highly sensitive to mitochondrial failure. SS-31 is researched for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and protect neuronal mitochondria from oxidative stress. 2026 models suggest it can “rescue” cognitive deficits by regulating BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) signaling and reducing neuroinflammation. It is a leading candidate for research into Alzheimer’s, post-viral “brain fog,” and recovery from traumatic brain injury (TBI).
SS-31 is a highly stable tetrapeptide, but its activity depends on maintaining its specific ionic charge. For long-term preservation, the lyophilized powder must be stored desiccated at -20°C. Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, the solution should be kept refrigerated at 2-8°C and utilized within 21–28 days. Researchers should avoid exposing the solution to direct UV light, as the dimethyltyrosine (Dmt) residue is sensitive to photo-oxidation, which can reduce its antioxidant potency.
Precision in mitochondrial research requires an absolute absence of heavy metals and synthesis byproducts that could paradoxically increase oxidative stress. Luxara Labs ensures every batch of SS-31 undergoes 3rd-party HPLC and MS testing to verify 99% purity. We provide expedited, temperature-stable shipping across Canada and the USA, ensuring that your materials arrive with their cardiolipin-binding integrity fully intact for high-precision laboratory application.
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