Epitalon
Epithalon · pineal tetrapeptide
Telomerase modulation in preclinical studies; longevity protocols.
Also known as · Mitochondrial peptide
SS-20
Mitochondria-targeting peptide; preclinical research.
What it is
SS-20 is another peptide from the SS family of mitochondria-targeting peptides developed by the same research program that produced SS-31. Like SS-31, it selectively accumulates in mitochondrial inner membranes and supports mitochondrial function.
Mechanism of action
Similar to SS-31: mitochondrial inner membrane targeting, cardiolipin interactions, support of electron transport chain function, reduction of oxidative stress.
Clinical evidence
The clinical evidence base for SS-20 specifically is more limited than SS-31. Most attention in the SS peptide family has focused on SS-31 (elamipretide) due to its clinical development program.
Why we don’t prescribe it at The Tide
Same reasoning as SS-31: experimental peptide without clinical validation pathway for our practice indications. Patients with mitochondrial dysfunction concerns are better served by foundational interventions and, where appropriate, MOTS-c.
Side effects and contraindications
Limited human safety data.