NAD+ vs SS-31: Mitochondrial Research Comparison
Comparing a cellular coenzyme with a mitochondria-targeted peptide. Understanding distinct mechanisms for energy metabolism and oxidative stress research.
Quick Comparison
| Category | NAD+ | SS-31 |
|---|---|---|
| Compound Type | Dinucleotide coenzyme | Mitochondria-targeted peptide |
| Structure | Nicotinamide + Adenine dinucleotide | D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2 (4 aa) |
| Molecular Weight | ~663 Da | ~639 Da |
| Cellular Target | Cytoplasm and mitochondria | Inner mitochondrial membrane |
| Primary Mechanism | Electron carrier, SIRT activation | Cardiolipin binding, ROS reduction |
| Research Focus | Cellular metabolism, NAD+ biology | Mitochondrial function, oxidative stress |
| Purity Standard | ≥98% verified | ≥98% HPLC verified |
| Stability | Moderate (light sensitive) | Good (peptide stability) |
What Is NAD+?
NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in all living cells. It consists of two nucleotides joined through their phosphate groups: one containing an adenine base and the other containing nicotinamide. NAD+ exists in oxidized (NAD+) and reduced (NADH) forms, shuttling electrons in metabolic reactions.
NAD+ research applications span multiple areas:
- Sirtuin activation and deacetylase activity studies
- Cellular redox state investigations
- Mitochondrial electron transport research
- PARP enzyme function studies
- Circadian rhythm and metabolic regulation
For researchers studying cellular metabolism and aging pathways, NAD+ serves as both a substrate and a signaling molecule, making it a versatile research tool for understanding fundamental cellular processes.
What Is SS-31 (Elamipretide)?
SS-31 (also known as Elamipretide or MTP-131) is a synthetic tetrapeptide with the sequence D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2. The "SS" designation refers to the Szeto-Schiller peptide series designed to target the inner mitochondrial membrane. The alternating cationic and aromatic residues enable selective accumulation in mitochondria.
SS-31 research focuses on:
- Cardiolipin-cytochrome c interaction studies
- Mitochondrial cristae structure research
- Electron transport chain optimization
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) modulation
- ATP production efficiency studies
SS-31's specific targeting of the inner mitochondrial membrane makes it a valuable tool for researchers investigating mitochondrial dysfunction without affecting cytoplasmic processes.
Mechanism of Action Comparison
NAD+
- •Electron carrier in redox reactions
- •Sirtuin substrate (NAD+-dependent)
- •PARP enzyme cofactor
- •CD38/NADase substrate
SS-31
- •Selective cardiolipin binding
- •Cytochrome c interaction modulation
- •ROS scavenging at ETC complexes
- •Cristae structure stabilization
Research Applications Comparison
Both compounds address cellular energy metabolism but through fundamentally different mechanisms. Selection depends on the specific research question and target compartment.
NAD+ Research Applications
- • Sirtuin biology and activation
- • Cellular metabolism studies
- • Redox signaling research
- • NAD+ precursor comparisons
- • Circadian rhythm investigations
SS-31 Research Applications
- • Mitochondrial membrane studies
- • Oxidative stress research
- • ETC complex function
- • Cardiolipin biology
- • ATP production efficiency
Stability & Handling Comparison
NAD+ Handling
- • Protect from light (photosensitive)
- • Store desiccated at -20°C
- • Prepare fresh solutions when possible
- • pH-sensitive stability
- • Monitor for hydrolysis
SS-31 Handling
- • Standard peptide protocols
- • Lyophilized: -20°C storage
- • Reconstituted: 2-8°C
- • Good aqueous stability
- • Avoid oxidizing conditions
Summary: Researcher Selection Framework
Choose NAD+ When:
- ✓ Studying sirtuin-dependent processes
- ✓ Investigating cellular redox state
- ✓ Researching whole-cell metabolism
- ✓ Comparing NAD+ precursor effects
Choose SS-31 When:
- ✓ Targeting mitochondria specifically
- ✓ Studying membrane-level effects
- ✓ Investigating ETC function
- ✓ Researching ROS at the source
For additional mitochondrial research compounds, see MOTS-c vs Glutathione. Browse our research compounds catalog for available products in Canada.
Why Documentation & Testing Matter
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fundamental difference between NAD+ and SS-31?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme involved in cellular redox reactions and sirtuin activation. SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a synthetic tetrapeptide that specifically targets the inner mitochondrial membrane. While both relate to cellular energy, they act through entirely different mechanisms.
How do their mitochondrial interactions differ?
NAD+ participates in mitochondrial electron transport as a coenzyme and activates mitochondrial sirtuins. SS-31 directly binds to cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing cristae structure and optimizing electron transport chain function.
Which compound is more specific to mitochondria?
SS-31 is highly mitochondria-specific due to its cationic structure that targets the negatively charged inner membrane. NAD+ functions throughout the cell, though a significant portion of cellular NAD+ is located in mitochondria.
What are the storage requirements for each compound?
NAD+ requires protection from light and moisture, stored at -20°C. SS-31 follows standard peptide storage protocols with lyophilized storage at -20°C and reconstituted storage at 2-8°C. Both should be protected from repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Are these compounds available for research in Canada?
Both NAD+ and SS-31 are available as research compounds from qualified Canadian suppliers. They are labeled for research use only with appropriate documentation for laboratory applications.
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