Semax

What Is Semax?

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide analogue of ACTH(4-10) — the neuroactive fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone responsible for cognitive and neuroprotective effects, without the hormonal (steroidogenic) activity of full-length ACTH. Developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Semax has been the subject of extensive cognitive and neuroprotection research.

While Selank primarily targets GABA and serotonin systems for anxiolytic effects, Semax acts primarily through dopamine and BDNF pathways for cognitive enhancement and neuroplasticity. CAS: 80714-61-0.

Why Researchers Choose Semax

• BDNF-focused mechanism — Directly upregulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor, the key driver of neuroplasticity
• No hormonal activity — Retains ACTH(4-10) cognitive benefits without adrenal stimulation or cortisol effects
• Dopaminergic enhancement — Modulates dopamine and serotonin turnover in key brain regions
• Neuroprotective research — Published studies in ischemic stroke, optic nerve damage, and neurodegenerative models

Key Mechanisms of Action

• BDNF/TrkB pathway — Increases BDNF expression, activating TrkB receptor cascades critical for memory consolidation
• Dopamine system modulation — Enhances dopaminergic neurotransmission in prefrontal cortex and striatum
• NGF upregulation — Stimulates nerve growth factor expression supporting neuronal survival and differentiation
• Enkephalinase inhibition — Like Selank, protects endogenous enkephalins from degradation
• Oxidative stress protection — Enhances antioxidant enzyme expression in neural tissues

Published Research Areas

• Memory consolidation and cognitive processing speed
• Ischemic stroke neuroprotection models
• Optic nerve damage and retinal neurodegeneration
• Attention, focus, and executive function research
• Comparative studies with Selank (complementary pathways)

Specifications

Storage & Stability

Lyophilized: -20°C long-term. Protect from light.

Reconstituted: 2-8°C, use within 4 weeks.

Quality Assurance

• HPLC / Mass spectrometry verified
• COA included with every order
• EU-based quality control under CERTALAB S.R.L.

For research purposes only. Not for human consumption.