SS-31, also known as MTP-131, elamipretide and Bendavia, is a unique tetrapeptide that specifically targets the mitochondria within cells. Its mechanism of action works by reducing mitochondrial oxidative stress and increasing glutathione and SIRT1 activity (protein involved in NAD activity). It also increases cardiolipin, which is a specialized lipid predominantly found within the inner mitochondrial membrane, helping maintain the structure of the mitochondria. Thus, SS-31 helps maintain the integrity of the inner cell membrane of the mitochondria, sustaining mitochondrial function and potentially restoring mitochondrial function to damaged mitochondria. The end result is an increased ATP production, boosting cellular energy and the potential for a host of therapeutic applications.
Potential Benefits
Improvement of Cognitive Dysfunction, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, is a complex phenomenon characterized by the gradual loss of cognitive abilities. Chronic neuroinflammation is a hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases. SS-31's impact on neuroinflammation is two-fold:
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It stabilizes cardiolipin, preserving the mitochondrial membrane's integrity. A stable mitochondrial membrane plays a crucial role in reducing the activation of inflammatory pathways.
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SS-31 indirectly contributes to reducing inflammation by mitigating oxidative stress, a major driver of neuroinflammation.
As a result, the peptide shields neurons from harmful inflammation, preserving their structural and functional integrity. Oxidative stress is intricately tied to cognitive decline. In neurodegenerative diseases, excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals leads to oxidative damage to neural tissue, impairing synaptic plasticity and overall cognitive function.
Longevity bio-regulator due to its profound impact on mitochondrial function, which plays a central role in the aging process. Mitochondria are the energy-producing powerhouses of cells, and their performance declines with age. SS-31's role as a bio-regulator lies in its ability to optimize mitochondrial function. By stabilizing cardiolipin, SS-31 ensures that the mitochondria can generate energy efficiently and maintain cellular homeostasis, thus enhancing overall quality of life.
Protection Against Oxidative Stress: Oxidative stress, characterized by an imbalance between the production of ROS and the body's ability to neutralize them, is a hallmark of numerous diseases and the aging process. By effectively neutralizing ROS, SS-31 prevents these molecules from causing cellular damage, thereby contributing to oxidative balance within the cell. This ROS scavenging action helps maintain cellular integrity and function. Cardiolipin, as mentioned above, a phospholipid crucial for maintaining the integrity of the inner mitochondrial membrane, is also enhanced with SS-31, helping the mitochondrial membrane remain structurally intact.
Cardioprotection: Studies have demonstrated the cardioprotective effects of SS-31, including its ability to improve cardiac function, reduce ischemia/reperfusion injury, and enhance recovery after heart attacks.
Enhanced athletic performance: By improving cellular energy production and reducing oxidative stress, SS-31 may have applications in enhancing athletic performance and aiding in recovery from strenuous exercise.
Potential Side Effects
Injection site reaction, headaches, nausea, dizziness.
