Evidence Tier: Phase 2-3 Clinical Trials — SS-31 (Elamipretide/Bendavia) is a mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide that concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane. It has the most advanced clinical pipeline of any anti-aging peptide.
Overview
SS-31 (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) is a cell-permeable, mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide developed by Stealth BioTherapeutics (now Larimar Therapeutics). It selectively concentrates 1000-5000x in the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it associates with cardiolipin to optimize electron transport chain function and reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.
Clinical Development
- Barth Syndrome: Phase 2/3 TAZPOWER trial showed improvements in 6-minute walk test and cardiac stroke volume
- Heart Failure: Phase 2 trials in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF)
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Phase 1/2 studies for geographic atrophy
- Mitochondrial Myopathy: Phase 2 trials completed
References
- Szeto HH. "First-in-class cardiolipin-protective compound as a therapeutic agent to restore mitochondrial bioenergetics." Br J Pharmacol. 2014;171(8):2029-2050.
- Chatfield KC, et al. "Elamipretide improves mitochondrial function in the failing human heart." JACC Basic Transl Sci. 2019;4(2):147-157.
Research Disclaimer
This article is compiled from peer-reviewed research and publicly available scientific literature. It is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.