Mitochondrial-targeting peptide (investigational)
Elamipretide
A mitochondria-targeting peptide studied in heart failure and mitochondrial diseases with mixed phase 2/3 results.
- Evidence:
- Moderate human evidence
- Status:
- Investigational
- Reviewed:
- 2026-08-03
Also known as: Elamipretide, Bendavia, MTP-131
What is Elamipretide?
A mitochondria-targeting peptide studied in heart failure and mitochondrial diseases with mixed phase 2/3 results.
This profile is educational. It organizes publicly discussed research context for Elamipretide and related naming aliases — it is not a treatment guide.
Proposed mechanism
Associates with cardiolipin in inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing electron transport chain and reducing ROS.
Mechanism language on PepGuide describes how researchers discuss pathways. Proposed mechanisms can change as evidence evolves.
Current research notes
Human evidence grade: Moderate human evidence
Preclinical evidence grade: Moderate human evidence
Elamipretide (SS-31) has been studied in heart failure (PROGRESS trial), mitochondrial myopathy, and Barth syndrome. Phase 3 heart failure trial did not meet primary endpoint. Still investigational for other indications. Represents legitimate mitochondrial peptide drug development.
Key uncertainties
- Which indications may succeed
- Long-term mitochondrial modulation safety
Research areas being studied
- Heart failure
- Mitochondrial disease
- Barth syndrome
- Kidney disease
Being studied for a topic is not the same as proven benefit in that topic. Prefer primary literature for study design, endpoints, and limitations.
Safety & side-effect notes
Reported or discussed adverse effects
- Injection-site reactions
- Dizziness
- Generally well tolerated
Additional risks & considerations
- Trial failures in some indications
- Incomplete regulatory approval
Regulatory status
Investigational
Regulatory framing here is educational and can lag policy changes. Check official sources for current status.
Frequently asked questions
What is Elamipretide?
A mitochondria-targeting peptide studied in heart failure and mitochondrial diseases with mixed phase 2/3 results.
How does Elamipretide work (proposed mechanism)?
Associates with cardiolipin in inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing electron transport chain and reducing ROS.
What is Elamipretide being researched for?
Elamipretide has been discussed in research contexts including: Heart failure, Mitochondrial disease, Barth syndrome, Kidney disease.
What does current evidence say about Elamipretide?
Moderate human evidence. Elamipretide (SS-31) has been studied in heart failure (PROGRESS trial), mitochondrial myopathy, and Barth syndrome. Phase 3 heart failure trial did not meet primary endpoint. Still investigational for other indications. Represents legitimate mitochondrial peptide drug development.
What safety considerations are noted for Elamipretide?
Reported or discussed considerations include: Injection-site reactions; Dizziness; Generally well tolerated; Trial failures in some indications; Incomplete regulatory approval. This is educational information, not medical advice.
References & sources
- Daubert MA et al. (2022). Elamipretide in heart failure (PROGRESS trial) — Eur J Heart Fail. Evidence type: human.
Prefer interactive tools? Open the PepGuide library entry for Elamipretide or ask PepGuide AI.
Educational and research information only. PepGuide does not sell or prescribe peptides, diagnose conditions, or provide personalized medical advice. Evidence summaries may include early-stage, animal, or limited human research — none of that is a substitute for primary literature or clinician guidance.