Semax

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the N-terminal fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH 4-10) with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro extension. It is studied in research for its neurotrophic, neuroprotective, and cognitive-related signaling effects in preclinical models.

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH(4-10) with a Pro-Gly-Pro stabilizing extension. It is studied in research for its effects on neurotrophic factor signaling, neuroprotective mechanisms, and monoaminergic neurotransmission. Supplied as a lyophilized research peptide.

Semax was developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences in collaboration with Moscow State University. It was designed by modifying the ACTH(4-10) fragment — known for its neurotrophic properties — with a Pro-Gly-Pro stabilizing sequence. Published research from Russian academic institutions has characterized its neurobiological profile since the 1980s.

Preclinical studies demonstrate that Semax modulates BDNF, NGF, and TrkB receptor signaling in brain tissue models. Research has characterized its effects on dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission, acetylcholinesterase activity, and immediate early gene expression (c-Fos). Additional studies have examined its neuroprotective properties in ischemia and oxidative stress models.