SS-31 is a synthetic aromatic–cationic tetrapeptide used in research into mitochondrial biology and oxidative-stress–associated signalling pathways. In experimental systems, SS-31 has been reported to associate with cardiolipin-rich mitochondrial membranes, and is used to investigate how peptide–membrane interactions influence mitochondrial function (e.g., respiration-linked readouts), reactive oxygen species (ROS) handling, and downstream cellular stress responses. Observed outcomes depend on concentration, exposure duration, and model system and are used to study mechanisms rather than defined physiological outcomes.
Applications in Research
• Mitochondrial bioenergetics and membrane interaction studies (including cardiolipin-associated systems)
• Oxidative stress / ROS signalling investigations in cellular and biochemical models
• Models examining mitochondrial dysfunction, membrane potential, and respiration-associated readouts
• Reference compound in peptide–mitochondria interaction research
Specifications Summary
Purity: ≥ 99%
Appearance: White to off-white lyophilised powder
Peptide Type: Synthetic mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide
Molecular Formula: C32H49N9O5 (free base)
Molecular Weight: ~639.78 g/mol (free base)
Solubility: Water, buffered aqueous solutions
Storage: –20 °C, desiccated, protected from light
Pack Size: 10mg
Precautions & Notes
• Experimental behaviour of SS-31 is influenced by assay format, membrane composition, concentration, and exposure duration
• Salt form (e.g., acetate vs hydrochloride) can affect molecular weight, solubility, and handling
• Buffer composition, pH, ionic strength, and oxidizing environments may affect peptide stability and assay performance
• Appropriate controls are recommended to distinguish specific from non-specific effects
• Intended strictly for laboratory research use; not for human or veterinary application
References
Birk A.V. et al. Targeting mitochondrial cardiolipin and the cytochrome c/cardiolipin complex to promote electron transport and optimize mitochondrial ATP synthesis. British Journal of Pharmacology, 2014.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24134698/
Keywords: SS-31, Mitochondria-Targeting Peptide, Cardiolipin, Mitochondrial Bioenergetics, Oxidative Stress, Aromatic-Cationic Peptide
