Semax

Semax (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic heptapeptide analogue of adrenocorticotropic hormone fragment ACTH (4-10), developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Unlike ACTH (4-10), Semax incorporates a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro extension that stabilizes the molecule and prolongs its biological activity. It is blood-brain barrier permeable and has been studied extensively for its nootropic, neuroprotective, and neurotrophic properties in preclinical and clinical research settings. Its mechanisms include upregulation of BDNF and NGF expression, modulation of dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmitter systems, and suppression of oxidative stress markers following ischemic challenge. It is approved for use in Russia for ischemic stroke and certain cognitive disorders. For research use only. Not for human consumption.

Chemical Structure and Identification

• Molecular Formula: C₃₇H₅₁N₉O₁₀S
• Molecular Weight: 813.92 g/mol
• CAS Number: 80714-61-0

Research Applications

• Neuroprotection and Ischemia Research: Investigation of Semax’s effects on gene expression in ischemized rat brain cortex, including immune and vascular system-related transcriptional networks following focal ischemia [1]
• Neurotrophic Factor Regulation: Study of Semax’s dose-dependent upregulation of BDNF and TrkB receptor expression in hippocampal and cortical tissue models [2]
• Amyloid Biology and Neurodegeneration: Examination of Semax’s capacity to bind copper ions, interfere with amyloid-beta aggregation, and reduce Abeta-induced cytotoxicity in neuronal cell models [3]
• Dopaminergic and Serotonergic Modulation: Analysis of Semax’s effects on monoamine neurotransmitter system activity in rodent brain regions as measured by neurochemical and receptor binding assays [4]

Reference Citations

1. PMC3987924 | https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3987924/
2. Dolotov OV et al. (2006) – J Neurochem | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16499514/
3. Sciacca MFM et al. (2022) – ACS Chem Neurosci | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35076215/
4. Eremin KO et al. (2005) – Neurochem Res | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16341580/

Important Regulatory Notice

These products are for research use only and are not intended for human consumption, therapeutic use, or diagnostic purposes. All compounds described herein have not been approved by the FDA for human use. These products are strictly intended for in vitro laboratory research and analytical purposes when conducted by qualified research professionals in licensed facilities. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws regarding purchase and use of these materials.