What is SS-31 | 10MG & 50MG

SS-31 | 10MG & 50MG is a synthetic Szeto-Schiller (SS) tetrapeptide studied in research for its unique ability to cross cellular membranes and directly target the inner mitochondrial membrane, acting as a potent mitochondrial antioxidant. It is intended exclusively for research use.

Regarding its chemical identity, SS-31 has a molecular formula of C32H49N9O5 and a molecular weight of 639.8 g/mol. Its reported canonical sequence is D-Arg-dimethylTyr-Lys-Phe-NH2. A confirmed CAS number is not available in open primary reference sources and is therefore omitted.

Its synonyms include SS-31.

Product for research use.

Mechanism of action of SS-31

SS-31 selectively binds to cardiolipin, a phospholipid exclusively found in the inner mitochondrial membrane. By stabilizing cardiolipin, it prevents cytochrome c peroxidase activity, thereby stopping the massive leakage of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and restoring mitochondrial ATP production under severe cellular stress.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of SS-31

Despite its positive charge, the alternating sequence of basic and aromatic amino acids allows SS-31 to easily penetrate cellular membranes and accumulate heavily (up to 1000-fold) inside mitochondria. It is highly stable and resistant to cytosolic proteases.

Scientific evidence on SS-31

The available evidence on SS-31 is preliminary and largely inconclusive, and should be interpreted with caution. The literature describes it as having been investigated for multiple indications in preclinical models.

Investigated in models of ischemia-reperfusion injury, heart failure, and neurodegenerative diseases. Evidence indicates it can significantly reduce infarct size following a heart attack and restore mitochondrial energetics in failing organs.

SS-31 applications in research

Ideal for (research context):
– In vitro and preclinical studies of its specific receptor pathways.
– Investigation of tissue repair, cell proliferation, and functional restoration in laboratory models.
– Comparative work with related peptides.

Not applicable for:
– clinical, diagnostic or therapeutic use.
– Any administration to humans or animals outside of an authorized research protocol.

Product for research use.

SS-31 protocols in preclinical studies

The literature consulted does not include numerical doses from studies that can be cited for SS-31, so no trial schemes or quantities are specified.

The presentations of this product (10MG & 50MG) refer only to the amount of lyophilized peptide per vial (or volume for liquids) and do not constitute a dosage recommendation. The design of any protocol, including concentrations and working volumes, is the responsibility of the researcher, based on their experimental objectives and the relevant primary literature.

Information provided exclusively for research purposes.

Reconstitution and manipulation of SS-31

As a general guideline for laboratory handling, lyophilized peptides such as SS-31 are usually reconstituted with bacteriostatic water (sterile water with approximately 0.9% benzyl alcohol).

Add the solvent slowly down the side of the vial, letting it run over the lyophilized powder; avoid injecting the stream directly onto the powder.
Do not shake: gently rotate the vial until completely dissolved.
Adjust the solvent volume according to the desired working concentration, considering the 10MG & 50MG contents of the vial.

These guidelines are for general technique and do not replace the internal procedures of each laboratory.

SS-31 Stability and Storage

As a standard laboratory handling procedure for peptides:

Freeze-dried (unreconstituted): This is the most stable form. It is best preserved by freezing and protecting it from moisture and light for long-term storage.
Reconstituted: once in solution, the peptide is less stable and must be kept refrigerated, being used within a short period; for extended storage, freezing in aliquots is usually preferred.
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as they can degrade the peptide.

Given that the molecule is characterized by rapid enzymatic degradation in biological media, careful cold chain management is especially relevant.

Documented SS-31 security profile

The documented safety information in open sources for SS-31 is limited and should be interpreted with caution, also considering that it is research material and not for clinical use.

Because it targets a highly specific mitochondrial structural element (cardiolipin) and does not interfere with healthy, physiological ROS signaling, SS-31 has demonstrated an excellent theoretical safety profile in preclinical models without causing reductive stress.

Formal contraindications and adverse event rates are not available in the consulted literature, so no figures are reported.

SS-31 in a comparative context

Unlike traditional antioxidants (like Vitamin C or E) which indiscriminately scavenge ROS in the cytosol, SS-31 physically prevents the pathological generation of ROS at the source (the inner mitochondrial membrane). It is closely compared to Humanin, though Humanin is endogenous and peptide-derived.

History and development of SS-31

Discovered by Hazel Szeto and Peter Schiller. It was designed to overcome the fundamental problem of antioxidant therapy: the inability of standard antioxidants to penetrate the highly impermeable inner mitochondrial membrane.