≥99%HPLC Purity
COAIncluded
USAShipped
Semax Peptide
Synthetic heptapeptide derived from the ACTH(4-10) fragment. Investigated for its interaction with neurotrophic factor expression pathways.
$45.00
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Quick Facts
| SKU | ACR-SEMAX |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 80714-61-0 |
| Molecular Formula | C37H51N9O10S |
| Molecular Weight | 813.93 g/mol |
| Sequence | Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro |
| Purity | ≥98% |
| Physical Form | Lyophilized Powder |
| Storage | Store at -20°C |
What is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro, MEHFPGP) with MW 813.93 g/mol and CAS 80714-61-0. It consists of the ACTH(4-7) fragment (Met-Glu-His-Phe) with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro stability tail. Developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Semax is approved in Russia and Ukraine as a nootropic and neuroprotective medication.
Unlike ACTH, Semax has no steroidogenic or hormonal activity — it exclusively activates the neurotrophic and neuroprotective pathways associated with the ACTH(4-7) fragment. Research demonstrates robust BDNF and NGF upregulation, making it one of the most potent peptide-based neurotrophic enhancers studied.
Mechanism of Action
BDNF/NGF Upregulation: Semax increases BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) and NGF (Nerve Growth Factor) expression in the hippocampus and cortex. BDNF promotes neuroplasticity, synaptogenesis, and long-term potentiation (LTP) — the cellular basis of memory formation.
TrkB Receptor Activation: Through BDNF upregulation, Semax indirectly activates TrkB receptors, triggering PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK survival and growth pathways in neurons.
Dopamine/Serotonin Modulation: Semax influences catecholamine metabolism, increasing dopamine and serotonin turnover in the prefrontal cortex and striatum, supporting attention, motivation, and mood.
Neuroprotection: Semax reduces oxidative stress in neural tissue by upregulating endogenous antioxidant enzymes and inhibiting lipid peroxidation in ischemic models.
Research & Clinical Studies
Neuroprotective Research in Stroke Models
Semax demonstrated significant neuroprotection in cerebral ischemia research:
- Reduced infarct volume by up to 30% in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) models
- Improved neurological deficit scores
- Modulated expression of 1,000+ genes in ischemic brain tissue (whole-transcriptome analysis)
- Approved in Russia for acute ischemic stroke treatment at 1% intranasal concentration
[1] Dmitrieva VG et al. Semax and Pro-Gly-Pro activate the transcription of neurotrophins and their receptor genes after cerebral ischemia. Cell Mol Neurobiol. 2010;30(5):737-748. PubMed ↗
Cognitive Enhancement Research
Semax cognitive research demonstrates improvements across multiple domains: enhanced attention and working memory in healthy volunteers, improved learning acquisition speed in animal models, protection against scopolamine-induced amnesia (cholinergic model), and enhanced long-term potentiation (LTP) in hippocampal slice preparations. The cognitive effects correlate with BDNF upregulation in hippocampal CA1 and dentate gyrus regions.
Gene Expression: Transcriptomic Analysis
Whole-genome expression profiling of ischemic rat brain tissue treated with Semax revealed modulation of 1,000+ genes. Major clusters: neurotrophic factors (BDNF, NGF, NT-3, NT-4), anti-inflammatory mediators, vascular endothelial growth factors, and anti-apoptotic genes. This transcriptomic breadth explains why Semax shows efficacy across multiple neurological research models despite being a small heptapeptide.
[1] Dmitrieva VG et al. Semax and Pro-Gly-Pro activate the transcription of neurotrophins and their receptor genes after cerebral ischemia. Cell Mol Neurobiol. 2010;30(5):737-748. PubMed ↗
Semax and Optic Nerve Research
A notable application of Semax research is in optic neuropathy. Russian clinical trials demonstrated Semax nasal spray improved visual function in patients with optic nerve atrophy. The mechanism involves BDNF-mediated retinal ganglion cell neuroprotection and enhanced neurotrophic support along the optic pathway. This represents one of the few peptide-based approaches to visual system neuroprotection.
Semax Variants: N-Acetyl Semax and Semax Amidate
Two modified Semax variants exist for research: N-Acetyl Semax (NASA) has an acetyl group on the N-terminal methionine, providing enhanced resistance to aminopeptidase degradation and potentially increased potency. Semax Amidate has the C-terminal carboxyl group amidated, further improving metabolic stability. Both variants maintain the same ACTH(4-7)-PGP core mechanism but with pharmacokinetic improvements. Research comparing the three forms suggests NASA may have slightly longer duration of action.
Chemical Properties
| Sequence | Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro (MEHFPGP / ACTH4-7-PGP) |
|---|---|
| Formula | C₃₇H₅₁N₉O₁₀S |
| MW | 813.93 g/mol |
| CAS | 80714-61-0 |
| Contains | 1× Met (oxidation-sensitive), 1× His (pH-sensitive) |
| Purity | ≥98% HPLC |
Handling & Reconstitution
Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water or preservative-free saline. Semax is commonly prepared for intranasal delivery (0.1% or 1% solution). Important: Contains methionine — prepare in low-oxygen conditions and use promptly after reconstitution. For 5mg vial: 1 mL BAC water = 5 mg/mL (0.5% solution).
Storage & Stability
Lyophilized: -20°C for 24 months. Reconstituted: 2-8°C, use within 14 days. Note: Contains methionine — susceptible to oxidation. Protect from light and oxygen. Argon-purged storage recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Semax affect ACTH or cortisol?
No. Despite being derived from ACTH(4-7), Semax has no steroidogenic activity and does not increase cortisol or ACTH levels. The fragment retains only the neurotrophic activity of ACTH, not the endocrine signaling.
What is the difference between Semax and N-Acetyl Semax?
N-Acetyl Semax (NASA) has an acetyl group on the N-terminal methionine, providing enhanced stability and potentially increased potency. Standard Semax may have slightly faster onset; NASA has longer duration.
What is BDNF and why does it matter?
BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) promotes neuroplasticity, synaptogenesis, and long-term potentiation (LTP). Low BDNF is associated with depression, cognitive decline, and neurodegeneration. Semax robustly upregulates BDNF expression.
Is Semax approved anywhere as medication?
Yes, Semax is approved in Russia and Ukraine as a prescription nootropic and neuroprotective medication. It is available as a nasal spray in two concentrations: 0.1% (nootropic, cognitive enhancement) and 1% (neuroprotective, acute stroke treatment).
What conditions is Semax approved for in Russia?
Semax is approved for: cognitive decline and memory disorders (0.1% nasal spray), acute ischemic stroke (1% nasal spray, within first 12 hours), optic nerve atrophy (0.1% drops), and ADHD in children (0.1% nasal spray). It has been in clinical use since the 1990s.
Is Semax addictive?
No evidence of dependence or tolerance. Semax works through neurotrophic (BDNF) and neuroprotective mechanisms rather than direct neurotransmitter agonism. It does not activate reward circuits or produce euphoria. Russian pharmacovigilance data over 25+ years of clinical use reports no addiction cases.
For laboratory and research use only. Not intended for human or animal consumption. All product information is derived from published preclinical research and does not constitute medical advice or claims.