SEMAX
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) derived from the N-terminal fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH 4-10). Designed exclusively for laboratory research, this peptide exhibits neurotrophic, neuroprotective, and cognitive-enhancing properties without significant hormonal activity.
Unlike the parent ACTH molecule, Semax lacks corticosteroid-stimulating effects, making it a focused research tool for studying neuroplasticity, cerebral circulation, and neuronal repair mechanisms. Each lyophilized vial is synthesized to ≥98% purity, verified by independent HPLC and mass spectrometry. Researchers utilize Semax to investigate BDNF and NGF upregulation, antioxidant enzyme activity, and recovery following ischemic or hypoxic injury in preclinical models.
Key Features
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High Purity: ≥98% confirmed by third-party HPLC analysis
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ACTH (4-10) Analogue: Retains neurotrophic effects without corticosteroid activity
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Neuroprotective Properties: Reduces oxidative stress and excitotoxicity in research models
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Stable Lyophilized Format: Easy reconstitution for cell culture or preclinical research
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Research Use Only: Not for human consumption, clinical use, or therapeutic application
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₃₇H₅₁N₉O₁₀ |
| Molecular Weight | 781.85 g/mol |
| Sequence | Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro |
| Purity | ≥98% (HPLC) |
| Appearance | White lyophilized powder |
| Storage (Lyophilized) | -20°C, protected from light and moisture |
| Storage (Reconstituted) | 2-8°C for up to 7 days; aliquot for longer storage |
Research Applications
Semax is widely used in preclinical studies investigating:
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Ischemic & Hypoxic Injury: Stroke models, cerebral ischemia, and oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)
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Neuroprotection: Excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial preservation
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Cognitive Enhancement: Learning, memory consolidation, and attention in rodent models
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Neurotrophic Factor Research: BDNF, NGF, and GDNF expression in hippocampal and cortical tissues
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Retinal Neuroprotection: Glaucoma and optic nerve crush models
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Parkinson’s Disease Models: Dopaminergic neuron preservation in MPTP-induced toxicity
Typical Research Parameters
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Reconstitution | Sterile water or PBS (pH 7.0–7.4) |
| In Vitro Concentration | 0.1–100 µM (neuronal or microglial cultures) |
| Preclinical Dosage (Rodent) | 0.05–1 mg/kg, intranasal, intraperitoneal, or subcutaneous |
| Administration Frequency | Once daily or twice daily, depending on study design |
Note: These are references for laboratory protocol design only, not medical dosing instructions.
Mechanism of Action
Semax exerts its research-documented effects through:
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BDNF & NGF Upregulation: Increases mRNA and protein expression of neurotrophic factors in the hippocampus and cortex
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Antioxidant Enzyme Activation: Enhances superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activity
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Cholinergic System Modulation: Increases acetylcholine levels and acetylcholinesterase regulation
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Dopaminergic Protection: Reduces MPTP-induced dopaminergic neuron loss in Parkinson’s models
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Cerebral Blood Flow Improvement: Modulates vascular tone and microcirculation in ischemic models
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Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and NF-κB activation
Comparison: Semax vs. Related Peptides
| Feature | Semax | Selank | Noopept (Dipeptide) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amino Acids | 7 | 7 | 2 (plus cyclization) |
| Origin | ACTH (4-10) fragment | Immunoglobulin G heavy chain | Racetam-like structure |
| Primary Mechanism | BDNF/NGF upregulation, antioxidant | Neurotrophins, cytokine modulation | AMPA receptor modulation |
| Primary Research Focus | Ischemia, neuroprotection, cognition | Anxiety, stress, and immune modulation | Neuroprotection, cognition |
| Hormonal Activity | None (ACTH-like activity removed) | None | None |
| Route of Administration (Preclinical) | IN, IP, SC | IN, IP, SC | Oral, IP |
Quality Assurance
This Semax product undergoes rigorous quality control, including:
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HPLC Purity Verification: ≥98% with full chromatographic trace
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Mass Spectrometry Confirmation: Molecular weight validated (ESI-MS)
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Endotoxin Testing: <1 EU/mg for cell culture compatibility
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Batch Tracking: Certificate of Analysis available for each lot


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