SS-31 and MOTS-c are two of the most studied peptides in mitochondrial biology, and they are very different molecules. Orion Peptides supplies both as lyophilized compounds for laboratory research only. Not for human or veterinary use.
| SS-31 (elamipretide) | MOTS-c | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4 residues (tetrapeptide) | 16 amino acids |
| Origin | Synthetic, Szeto-Schiller peptide family | Encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene |
| Research focus | Binding to cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane | Mitochondrial-derived signalling peptide |
| Testing watch-out | Contains non-standard residues (D-Arg, dimethyl-tyrosine), so a strong identity test (ideally mass spec) matters | Longer sequence, so check for truncated variants on the chromatogram |
In an in-vitro study using liposomes and isolated mitochondria, SS-31 was shown to bind selectively to cardiolipin-containing membranes (PubMed). For a side-by-side discussion, read SS-31 vs MOTS-c.
What a “purity guarantee” should actually include
A guarantee is only as good as the certificate behind it. Look for:
- HPLC purity with the chromatogram, not just a percentage
- Identity test, ideally mass spec, especially for SS-31’s non-standard residues
- Net peptide content: across the market, only 49% of 664 certificates reviewed in September 2026 were within ±5% of labelled mass (PepIndex)
- A named lab, batch number and test dates
Our hub guide: How to Read a Peptide COA and our 7-point COA credibility check.
Orion Peptides mitochondrial research peptides
Every Orion Peptides batch is tested by a third-party laboratory, Hyte Research Division. Certificates are on our COA Verification page.
Handling notes for MOTS-c are in MOTS-c Storage.
Shop: Orion Peptides SS-31 and MOTS-c
FAQ
Is SS-31 the same as elamipretide? Yes. Elamipretide is the non-proprietary name for SS-31.
Where does MOTS-c come from? It is encoded by a short open reading frame within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene.
Are these for human use? No. Orion Peptides SS-31 and MOTS-c are for laboratory research only.
Relevant resources
- SS-31, cardiolipin and the cytochrome c/cardiolipin complex (PubMed 24134698)
- PepIndex — September 2026 analysis of 664 peptide certificates
- ISO/IEC 17025:2017 — competence of testing laboratories
All Orion Peptides compounds are for research use only. Not for human or veterinary use.
