Description
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a synthetic, cell-permeable tetrapeptide with the amino acid sequence D-Arg-dimethylTyr-Lys-Phe-NH
It is designed to target the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it binds specifically to cardiolipin, optimizes the electron transport chain, and acts as a potent antioxidant to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and improve ATP synthesis.
Key Characteristics of the SS-31 Amino Chain:
- Sequence: D-Arginine – Dimethyltyrosine (Dmt) – Lysine – Phenylalanine.
- Structure: Cationic tetrapeptide (four amino acids).
- Terminal Modification: The C-terminus is amidated, which is crucial for its stability and function.
- Components: It features alternating aromatic residues and basic amino acids, which allow it to penetrate cell membranes and specifically accumulate within the mitochondria.
- Key Residue: Dimethyltyrosine (Dmt) is crucial for its ability to scavenge oxygen radicals.
Also known as Bendavia or MTP-131, this small peptide is used in studies focused on mitochondrial dysfunction, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases
