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Semax

Nootropic & CNS
Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-ProACTH(4-7)PGP

Overview

Semax, also known as Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro or ACTH(4-7)PGP, is a synthetic peptide derived from the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). It is composed of seven amino acids and is primarily synthesized through solid-phase peptide synthesis techniques. The compound was originally developed in Russia, where it has been used for its potential cognitive-enhancing and neuroprotective properties. Researchers have investigated Semax for its effects on cognitive functions, neuroprotection, and mood regulation. Studies have shown that it may improve memory, enhance learning, and provide neuroprotection in various models of brain injury and neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, it has been explored for its potential to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The mechanism of action of Semax involves modulation of the central nervous system, primarily through the upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and modulation of the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems. It is believed to exert its effects by influencing the expression of neurotrophic factors and neurotransmitter systems. Pharmacokinetically, Semax is known for its rapid onset of action when administered intranasally, with a short half-life of approximately 15 minutes. Its stability and bioavailability vary depending on the route of administration, with intranasal delivery being the most effective. Current research on Semax is ongoing, with studies focusing on its potential therapeutic applications in neurodegenerative diseases, cognitive disorders, and mood disorders. It is not approved by major regulatory agencies like the FDA or EMA, and its use is primarily limited to research settings in many countries.

Mechanism of Action

Semax primarily acts by modulating the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and influencing the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems. It is thought to enhance neuroplasticity and cognitive function through these pathways, contributing to its nootropic effects.

Molecular Data

FormulaC37H51N9O10S
Molecular Weight813.9 g/mol
CAS Number80714-61-0
PubChem CID9811102

Half-Life

Intranasal~15 minutes
OralPoor bioavailability

Intranasal administration is preferred due to rapid absorption and onset of action.

Storage

Lyophilized

Stable for 2+ years at -20°C, 12 months at 4°C

Reconstituted

Use within 14 days when refrigerated at 4°C

Avoid

Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, direct light

Solvent

Bacteriostatic water or sterile saline recommended

Solubility

Semax is soluble in water and saline solutions.

Legal Status

🇩🇪DE

Not approved as a medicinal product. Not a controlled substance. Sale as research chemical is a legal grey area.

🇺🇸US

Not approved by the FDA. Not scheduled by the DEA.

🇦🇺AU

Data limited

🇬🇧UK

Data limited

Legal status information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory changes. Always verify with official government sources before making any decisions.

8 Research Publications

Semax peptide targets the μ opioid receptor gene Oprm1 to promote deubiquitination and functional recovery after spinal cord injury in female mice.

Animal

British journal of pharmacology · 2025

Researchers studied the effects of a synthetic peptide called Semax on spinal cord injuries in female mice. They found that Semax improved recovery by targeting specific receptors and reducing harmful cellular processes, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic approach for spinal cord injuries.

  • Semax improved functional recovery in mice with spinal cord injuries by reducing neuronal cell death.
  • The peptide inhibited harmful processes related to lysosomal membrane damage and neuroinflammation.
  • Researchers identified the μ-opioid receptor as a key target of Semax, which plays a role in the recovery process.
PubMed

Antidepressant-like and antistress effects of the ACTH(4-10) synthetic analogs Semax and Melanotan II on male rats in a model of chronic unpredictable stress.

Animal

European journal of pharmacology · 2024

Researchers studied the effects of two synthetic compounds, Semax and Melanotan II, on male rats experiencing chronic stress. They found that these compounds significantly reduced signs of depression, such as lack of pleasure in activities and stress-related changes in brain chemistry.

  • Chronic treatment with Semax and Melanotan II reduced symptoms of anhedonia in stressed rats.
  • Both compounds helped reverse weight gain suppression and changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels due to stress.
  • The study suggests that these synthetic analogs may have potential for addressing depression and stress-related issues.
PubMed

[Place of oligopeptide H-Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro-OH in the therapy and rehabilitation of patients with ischemic stroke].

Review

Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova · 2024

Researchers reviewed the effectiveness of a peptide called H-Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro-OH (MGHPPGP) in treating ischemic stroke. They found that this peptide can be beneficial during both the acute and recovery phases of stroke, particularly when administered intranasally.

  • Researchers observed that MGHPPGP is effective in treating ischemic stroke across different subtypes, including atherothrombotic and cardioembolic strokes.
  • The study highlighted that the intranasal delivery method may overcome challenges in drug delivery to the brain during stroke.
  • MGHPPGP showed clinical efficacy in improving outcomes during both the acute phase and recovery period of ischemic stroke.
PubMed

Semax, synthetic ACTH(4-10) analogue, attenuates behavioural and neurochemical alterations following early-life fluvoxamine exposure in white rats.

Human

Neuropeptides · 2021

Researchers studied the effects of the antidepressant fluvoxamine on young rats and found that early exposure led to long-term behavioral issues, including increased anxiety and learning difficulties. They also observed that the synthetic peptide Semax could help mitigate these negative effects on behavior and brain chemistry.

  • Neonatal exposure to fluvoxamine resulted in impaired emotional responses and learning abilities in rats.
  • Fluvoxamine exposure altered the levels of important brain chemicals associated with mood and behavior.
  • Semax administration improved anxiety-like behaviors and normalized brain chemical levels affected by fluvoxamine exposure.
PubMed

Semax, an analog of ACTH

Unknown

Molecular genetics and genomics : MGG · 2017

Researchers studied Semax, a compound similar to a hormone called ACTH, to understand how it might protect the brain during a stroke. They focused on the mechanisms that could prevent damage caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. This research is important for developing better treatments for stroke victims.

  • Researchers observed that Semax may have neuroprotective effects during ischemic injury.
  • The study aimed to clarify the mechanisms behind these protective effects.
  • Understanding these mechanisms could lead to improved strategies for stroke treatment.
PubMed

Semax and Pro-Gly-Pro activate the transcription of neurotrophins and their receptor genes after cerebral ischemia.

Animal

Cellular and molecular neurobiology · 2010

Researchers studied the effects of two compounds, Semax and Pro-Gly-Pro (PGP), on brain recovery after a stroke in rats. They found that both compounds activated the production of important proteins that support nerve health, with Semax showing a more specific effect on neurotrophins in damaged brain areas.

  • Semax and PGP both increased the expression of neurotrophins and their receptors in the brains of rats after a stroke.
  • Semax specifically enhanced the production of certain neurotrophins at different time points following the stroke.
  • PGP's effects were less specific compared to Semax, indicating different mechanisms of action.
PubMed

Semax, an analog of ACTH(4-10) with cognitive effects, regulates BDNF and trkB expression in the rat hippocampus.

Unknown

Brain research · 2006

Researchers studied the effects of Semax, a peptide related to a hormone, on brain function in rats. They found that a single dose of Semax significantly increased levels of important proteins and genes associated with learning and memory in the hippocampus, leading to improved learning behaviors.

  • Researchers observed a 1.4-fold increase in BDNF protein levels in the hippocampus after Semax treatment.
  • There was a 1.6-fold increase in trkB protein activation levels following Semax application.
  • Semax-treated rats demonstrated enhanced learning behaviors, indicated by increased conditioned avoidance reactions.
PubMed

Semax, an ACTH(4-10) analogue with nootropic properties, activates dopaminergic and serotoninergic brain systems in rodents.

Animal

Neurochemical research · 2005

Researchers studied the effects of Semax, a peptide related to a hormone called ACTH, on brain systems in rodents. They found that Semax increased levels of a serotonin marker and enhanced the effects of another substance, D-amphetamine, on dopamine levels and movement.

  • Semax significantly increased the levels of a serotonin marker in the brain.
  • The peptide enhanced the effects of D-amphetamine on dopamine levels.
  • Semax also boosted locomotor activity in the rodents when combined with D-amphetamine.
PubMed

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This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice or replaces consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.