Semax
$70.00
Synthetic Heptapeptide · ACTH(4–10) Analog · Nootropic & Neuroprotective Sequence
Semax (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic, metabolic-stabilized heptapeptide derived from a fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH₄–₁₀), engineered in the late 1980s by Russian researchers who appended a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro tripeptide extension to resist rapid enzymatic degradation. Free of adrenocortical or hormonal activity, Semax acts centrally as a potent regulator of neurotrophic factors and neurotransmitter kinetics. Its mechanism centers on upregulating Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) gene expression in the hippocampus, modulating melanocortin-3 and melanocortin-4 (MC3/MC4) receptors, and balancing dopaminergic and serotonergic turnover. While displaying a rapid plasma elimination half-life (few minutes), intranasal administration in rodent models demonstrates rapid central nervous system distribution and sustained neurological activity lasting several hours.
Supplied at 11mg
Description
Overview
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide based on a fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH₄–₁₀) appended with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro extension. Engineered in the late 1980s, this tripeptide tail resists enzymatic breakdown, dramatically extending its central bioavailability relative to native ACTH fragments.
Lacking adrenocortical or endocrine activity, Semax acts directly in the CNS. It upregulates Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in the hippocampus, modulates melanocortin-3 and melanocortin-4 (MC3/MC4) receptors, and balances dopaminergic and serotonergic turnover.
Key Technical Specifications
| Sequence | Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro |
|---|---|
| One-Letter Code | MEHFPGP |
| Molecular Formula | C₃₇H₅₁N₉O₁₀S |
| Molecular Weight | 813.94 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 80714-61-0 |
| Half-Life Profile | ~Few minutes (plasma); Sustained CNS activity (several hours intranasally) |
| Solubility | Bacteriostatic Water / Sterile Water / Aqueous Buffers |
| Primary Class | Synthetic ACTH Analog / Nootropic Heptapeptide |
Biochemical Mechanism & Pathway Dynamics
1. Neurotrophin Expression & Synaptic Plasticity
Semax rapidly increases mRNA expression of BDNF and NGF in hippocampal tissues, accelerating dendritic arborization, long-term potentiation (LTP), and memory consolidation.
2. Melanocortin & Neurotransmitter Modulation
- MC3/MC4 Dynamics: Interacts with central melanocortin receptors to promote neuroprotection without affecting peripheral adrenal steroidogenesis.
- Monoamine Turnover: Regulates dopamine and serotonin dynamics to maintain executive function and microvascular stability during cognitive or hypoxic stress.
Preclinical Literature: Landmark studies by Kaplan, Levitskaya, and Shadrina demonstrated that Semax rapidly penetrates the CNS following intranasal administration in rodent models, driving BDNF expression and protecting brain tissue against focal ischemic injury.
For laboratory research, educational, and analytical reference only. Strictly not for human or veterinary use.
