Longevity Research Program
This is an educational summary of research areas relevant to this goal. SmartPeptide does not prescribe peptides or recommend dosages. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider.
Educational only — not medical advice. SmartPeptide does not prescribe, diagnose, or treat. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before using any peptide, supplement, medication, or protocol.
Evidence landscape
Aggregated across all 5 peptides in this categoryGoal
Educational overview for longevity research program.
Research overview
Research overview compiled from publicly available abstracts and reviews. Quality of evidence varies — some peptides have only preclinical data.
All 5 peptides in this category
Ranked by evidence quality: strongest human evidence first, preclinical and anecdotal last.
- SermorelinLimited human evidence
GHRH analog (first 29 amino acids of human GHRH). Stimulates endogenous growth hormone release. Approved for pediatric GH deficiency, widely used off-label in adults.
- SS-31 (Elamipretide)Limited human evidence
Stealth BioTherapeutics' mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide. Binds cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane and improves electron transport chain efficiency. Multiple Phase 3 trials in genetic mitochondrial diseases (Barth syndrome, primary mitochondrial myopathy) with mixed regulatory outcomes.
- NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide)Limited human evidence
Coenzyme essential for cellular energy production and DNA repair (NOT a peptide — it's a nucleotide). Available as IV infusion, intranasal, and oral precursors (NR, NMN). Heavily discussed in longevity communities. Direct NAD+ supplementation has weak human RCT support; precursors have somewhat better data.
- EpitalonLimited human evidence
Tetrapeptide studied primarily in Russian gerontology research for telomerase modulation and pineal function.
- MOTS-cAnimal / preclinical only
Mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded in the 12S rRNA. Preclinical data on insulin sensitivity, exercise capacity, and metabolic health. No FDA approval. Human data limited to small studies.
Lifestyle suggestions
Foundational lifestyle factors (sleep, nutrition, training, stress) often outperform any single intervention in published research.
Lifestyle factors (sleep, nutrition, training, stress) are foundational. SmartPeptide does not provide exact dosing instructions for any peptide.
Questions for your clinician
- What is the strongest human evidence for the peptides I'm considering?
- Which option here is FDA-approved vs. research-only?
- What baseline + monitoring labs would you recommend for my goal?
- What signs of harm or adverse reactions should I watch for?
- How will we measure benefit objectively?
- What's the exit criteria if it's not working?