Semax

Semax – ACTH‑Derived Neuropeptide for Cognitive and Neuroprotection Research

Semax (Met‑Glu‑His‑Phe‑Pro‑Gly‑Pro) is an analog of the ACTH(4–10) fragment developed in Russia as a regulatory neuropeptide with cognitive‑enhancing and neuroprotective properties. Unlike full‑length ACTH, Semax does not meaningfully stimulate adrenal steroid production and is instead investigated for its effects on BDNF signaling, synaptic plasticity, and gene‑expression programs involved in learning, memory, and brain resilience under ischemic or stress conditions.

Key features

• Nootropic and cognitive effects: In animal and early human studies, Semax improves attention, learning acquisition, and short‑term memory, with EEG and behavioral changes consistent with enhanced cortical information processing.

• BDNF and neuroplasticity modulation: Semax upregulates brain‑derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and TrkB expression in the hippocampus and cortex, supporting synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis, and long‑term memory consolidation.

• Neuroprotection in ischemia: In focal cerebral ischemia models and stroke studies, Semax reduces infarct size, supports neuronal survival during hypoxia and glutamate toxicity, and favorably alters expression of hundreds of genes tied to inflammation and repair.

• Stress, mood, and immune modulation: Data suggest Semax may exert anxiolytic and antidepressant‑like effects and influence immune‑related gene networks, positioning it as a candidate tool in models of stress, mood disorders, and neuroinflammatory states.

  
  

Research applications

Semax is used in experimental systems investigating:

• Cognitive enhancement and neurodegeneration, including models of Alzheimer‑like pathology, ADHD, and learning deficits, with endpoints in memory tasks, attention, and synaptic markers.

• Stroke and traumatic brain injury, assessing neurologic recovery, lesion volume, gene‑expression changes, and functional outcomes following ischemic or traumatic insults.

• Stress, anxiety, and mood regulation, where its effects on monoamine systems, melanocortin pathways, and BDNF are linked to behavioral indices of anxiety and depression.

• Amyloid and metal‑related toxicity, with in vitro data showing Semax can interfere with copper‑induced amyloid‑β aggregation and protect cells from associated toxicity.

  
  

Recommended handling

• For controlled laboratory research use only, by qualified professionals.

• Store in a cool, dry environment away from light; follow institutional SOPs for peptide storage, reconstitution, aliquoting, and disposal.

• Investigators should consult current literature for model‑appropriate dosing, typically intranasal or parenteral routes, and relevant cognitive, neuroimaging, and molecular endpoints.

  
  

Important disclaimer

All compounds sold by Rocky Peptide Chain, including Semax, are for research use only. They are not intended for human consumption, medical use, diagnostic purposes, or treatment of any disease or condition. No claims are made or implied regarding cognitive enhancement, mood improvement, stroke recovery, or therapeutic benefit. Researchers are solely responsible for appropriate handling, experimental design, and compliance with all applicable regulations.