Educational content only. Not medical advice, and no doctor-patient relationship is created. Read the medical disclaimer
Peptide · mitochondria-targeted
SS-31 (Elamipretide)
Also known as: Forzinity
The first FDA-approved mitochondria-targeted drug, approved for one rare disease.
Tier 3 · Education only
Grade C · Limited human evidence
Educational content only, not medical advice. Discussion here does not mean this therapy is prescribed by Youthful Medicine or available to you. Read the medical disclaimer
U.S. regulatory status
FDA-approved (Forzinity, accelerated approval, September 2025) only for Barth syndrome, a rare genetic disease. Not available for general or longevity use.
What it is
A small four-amino-acid peptide that concentrates in the inner membrane of mitochondria.
How it is thought to work
It binds cardiolipin, helping keep the energy-making folds (cristae) intact and reducing oxidative stress.
Animations simplify biology for teaching. They are not a claim that this peptide works this way in people.
What the research shows
Trials in Barth syndrome supported accelerated approval based on muscle strength. Trials in other conditions, such as mitochondrial myopathy and heart failure, were mixed.
Safety and considerations
Injection-site reactions are common. Long-term data outside Barth syndrome are limited.
Our position
A landmark for mitochondrial medicine and a great teaching molecule. Not a longevity product.
Video lesson
AT A GLANCE
Quadrant
Regenerative & Cellular Health
Sub-pillar
Cellular Energy
Tier
Tier 3 · Education only
Evidence grade
Grade C · Limited human evidence
Last reviewed
Is this right for you?
Only a physician who has evaluated you can answer that. Consultations are with licensed Youthful Medicine providers.
Never use products labeled “research use only” or “not for human use.” Purity, dose and sterility are unverified.