Bendavia

Bendavia (or SS-31) is a small mitochondrially-targeted tetrapeptide (D-Arg-dimethylTyr-Lys-Phe-NH2) that scavenges mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, inhibits the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) pore, and stabilizes cardiolipin.

For elderly mice, it also reduces age-related declines in mitochondrial ATP production, coupling of oxidative phosphorylation (P/O), and cell energy state (PCr/ATP). It also is associated with more reduced glutathione redox status and lower mitochondrial H2O2 emission. It does not have the same effect in younger mice, however.

It was discovered by Cornell professor Hazel Szeto, who later started Stealth Peptides to develop the drug.