Semax Research Compound
Research Use Only
This product is intended for laboratory research purposes only. It is not intended for human or veterinary use, food, cosmetic, household, or agricultural applications. Not for human consumption.
Overview
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the N-terminal fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH 4-10) with the addition of a Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminal tripeptide for stability. Developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Semax has been registered as a medication in Russia since 2001 and extensively studied for its effects on cognitive function and neuroprotection.
Molecular Characteristics
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C37H51N9O10S |
| Molecular Weight | 813.93 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 80714-61-0 |
| Sequence | Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro |
| Derived From | ACTH (4-10) |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC) |
| Storage | -20°C, protected from light |
Mechanism of Action
Semax exerts nootropic effects through multiple neurobiological pathways:
BDNF Modulation
- Increased BDNF mRNA expression
- Enhanced TrkB receptor signaling
- Neuroplasticity promotion
- Synaptic density enhancement
Neurotransmitter Systems
- Dopaminergic system modulation
- Serotonergic pathway interactions
- Cholinergic system effects
- Glutamatergic signaling
Neuroprotection
- Antioxidant enzyme activation
- Reduction of oxidative stress markers
- Anti-inflammatory effects in CNS
- Mitochondrial function support
Gene Expression
- Upregulation of neurotrophic factors
- Immediate early gene activation (c-fos, NGFI-A)
- Synaptic plasticity gene modulation
Research Applications
Cognitive Function Studies
- Memory formation and consolidation
- Learning enhancement models
- Attention and focus research
- Executive function assessment
Neuroprotection Research
- Ischemic injury models
- Neurodegenerative disease studies
- Oxidative stress protection
- Excitotoxicity prevention
BDNF Pathway Research
- Neuroplasticity mechanisms
- Depression model studies
- Neurogenesis quantification
- Synaptic remodeling
Pharmacokinetic Studies
- Intranasal delivery optimization
- CNS penetration assessment
- Half-life determination
- Bioavailability studies
Available Formats
| Size | Format | Catalog Code |
|---|---|---|
| 10mg | Lyophilized | SEM-10 |
| 30mg | Lyophilized | SEM-30 |
| 100mg | Lyophilized | SEM-100 |
Handling & Storage
- Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C
- Protect from light and moisture
- Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water
- Reconstituted solution stable at 2-8°C for up to 4 weeks
- For nasal formulations: use appropriate delivery systems
- Avoid oxidation (methionine residue)
Quality Specifications
- Purity: ≥99% by HPLC
- Appearance: White lyophilized powder
- Solubility: Soluble in water
- Endotoxin: Less than 1 EU/mg
- Certificate of Analysis provided
Regulatory Notes
Semax has been approved and registered in Russia and several CIS countries since 2001 for various cognitive applications. It remains a research compound in most other jurisdictions.
References
- Dolotov OV, et al. "Semax, an analog of ACTH(4-10) with cognitive effects, regulates BDNF and trkB expression." Brain Res. 2006.
- Ashmarin IP, et al. "The simplest proline-containing peptides PG, GP, PGP, and GPGG: regulatory activity and possible sources of biosynthesis." Biochemistry (Moscow). 1998.
- Levitskaya NG, et al. "Neuroprotective effects of Semax in conditions of global cerebral ischemia." Bull Exp Biol Med. 2011.