Semax

Overview

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide analogue of the adrenocorticotropic hormone fragment ACTH(4-10). It was originally developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences and has been the subject of published Russian research into its nootropic and neuroprotective properties in animal models. This vial contains 10mg of Semax as a lyophilised powder for reconstitution with sterile diluent in the laboratory.

What is Semax?

Semax is derived from a naturally occurring fragment of ACTH(4-10), modified with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro sequence to improve peptide stability against enzymatic degradation. The native ACTH(4-10) fragment lacks the adrenocorticotropic activity of the full ACTH molecule but retains behavioural and cognitive research effects observed in preclinical studies. Published research in animal models has explored Semax in the context of:

Cognitive performance research in rodent models

BDNF expression studies in the hippocampus

Neuroprotective pathway research

Cerebral ischemia research models

Nootropic mechanism research

Mechanism of Action

Preclinical studies suggest Semax may influence the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and nerve growth factor in specific brain regions of rodent models. Researchers have also explored its effects on enkephalin-degrading enzymes and dopaminergic pathway activity. The precise downstream mechanisms remain an active area of investigation in the published literature.

Published Research

Most of the published literature on Semax comes from Russian research groups, with studies dating back to the 1980s. Areas of investigation have included:

Cognitive performance research in behavioural rodent models

BDNF and NGF expression studies

Cerebral ischemia research in animal models

Neuroprotective pathway research

Enkephalinase enzyme activity research

Clinical research outside of Russia is limited, and Semax is not approved by the TGA for any therapeutic indication.

Quality and Verification

Every batch ships with a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis documenting purity by HPLC (≥99%) and mass spectrometry confirmation of peptide identity. The vial is shipped lyophilised to preserve stability during transit and should be stored at -20°C prior to reconstitution and 2-8°C after reconstitution in the laboratory.

Further Reading

For background on handling lyophilised research peptides, see our reconstitution calculator.

Disclaimer

For research use only. Not for human consumption. The information provided is for educational and research purposes only. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult published peer-reviewed literature before designing research protocols.