SS-31

SS-31 represents a novel approach to treating cardiovascular disease by directly targeting mitochondrial dysfunction, which is increasingly recognized as a central mechanism in heart disease and aging. Unlike traditional cardiovascular therapies that focus on symptoms, SS-31 addresses the underlying cellular energy crisis that occurs when mitochondria become damaged or dysfunctional. The peptide works by stabilizing cardiolipin, a critical fat molecule that helps maintain the structural integrity of mitochondria - the cell's powerhouses. When cardiolipin becomes damaged through oxidative stress, mitochondria lose their ability to produce energy efficiently, leading to cell death and tissue damage. Research has focused on three primary areas: (1) acute cardiac protection during heart attacks and surgical procedures, (2) chronic heart failure management, and (3) age-related cardiac decline. Studies have shown that SS-31 can reduce tissue damage during heart attacks, improve energy production in failing hearts, and potentially slow the aging process in cardiac muscle. The peptide's unique ability to specifically target mitochondria while avoiding other cellular components makes it an attractive therapeutic candidate for conditions where energy metabolism is compromised.