SS-31 (Elamipretide), also known by its brand name Forzinity™, is a novel synthetic tetra-peptide that selectively targets the inner mitochondrial membrane . It was co-discovered by Dr. Peter W. Schiller at the IRCM and Dr. Hazel Szeto at Cornell University as part of the Szeto-Schiller (SS) peptide family .
Key Specifications:
CAS Number: 736992-21-5
Molecular Formula: C₃₂H₄₉N₉O₅
Molecular Weight: 639.73 g/mol
Sequence: H-D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH₂ (where Dmt = 2',6'-dimethyl-L-tyrosine)
Purity: ≥95% (research grade)
Appearance: White lyophilized powder
Solubility: Soluble in water
Storage: Store at -20°C; protect from light and moisture
Mechanism of Action: SS-31 targets the inner mitochondrial membrane and interacts with cardiolipin, a phospholipid essential for mitochondrial cristae structure and electron transport chain function . This interaction:
Preserves mitochondrial cristae integrity
Reduces mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production
Increases ATP synthesis
Prevents mitochondrial depolarization and permeability transition pore formation
Has no effects on normal mitochondria—only protects stressed/damaged mitochondria
Recently identified mechanism involves phospholipid scramblase 3 (PLSCR3) as an essential mediator
Key Advantages Over Traditional Antioxidants:
Superior mitochondrial targeting compared to natural antioxidants
Overcomes bioavailability limitations of traditional mitochondrial-targeted compounds
Low toxicity profile
Research Applications:
| Category | Applications |
|---|---|
| Mitochondrial Diseases | Barth syndrome, primary mitochondrial myopathy |
| Kidney Disease | Acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic kidney disease |
| Neurodegeneration | Parkinson's disease (α-synuclein aggregation), Alzheimer's disease, neuroinflammation |
| Cardiovascular | Heart failure, ischemia-reperfusion injury |
| Metabolic | Islet cell protection, diabetes research |
| Ophthalmology | Age-related macular degeneration |
| Muscle | Sarcopenia, muscle aging |
Regulatory Status:
September 19, 2025: FDA approved Forzinity™ (elamipretide/SS-31) as the first-ever approved mitochondria-targeted therapeutic for the treatment of Barth syndrome
Currently in Phase 3 clinical trials for primary mitochondrial myopathy and age-related macular degeneration
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. Not for human use outside approved clinical applications.
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