Semax (30 mg)

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide engineered as an analogue of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) fragment 4–10. Its sequence, Met–Glu–His–Phe–Pro–Gly–Pro (MEHFPGP), was designed to preserve the neuroactive effects of ACTH fragments while avoiding any direct hormonal activity. Developed in Russia in the 1980s, Semax has been widely studied for its neuromodulatory and neuroprotective properties in both animal and human research.

One of its key innovations lies in the C-terminal Pro–Gly–Pro (PGP) tripeptide extension, which provides enhanced resistance against enzymatic breakdown, increasing its biological stability and prolonging its activity in neural tissues. This modification allows Semax to exert longer-lasting effects compared to the original ACTH fragments, making it a valuable research compound for exploring gene regulation, brain plasticity, and neurochemical modulation.

Chemical Structure of Semax

1. Sequence: Met–Glu–His–Phe–Pro–Gly–Pro (MEHFPGP)
2. Molecular Formula: C₃₇H₅₁N₉O₁₀S
3. Molecular Weight: ~813.9 Da
4. PubChem CID: 122178

Research Applications and Effects

1. Gene Expression & Neuroprotection: Research demonstrates modulation of transcription factors such as CREB and BDNF, suppression of inflammatory mediators (MMP-9, c-Fos, JNK), and enhanced neuronal survival under ischemic conditions.
2. Cognitive and Memory Studies: Experimental findings highlight increases in hippocampal BDNF expression and improvements in learning and memory outcomes.
3. Monoaminergic System Modulation: Shown to enhance activity of dopamine and serotonin pathways in the cortex and striatum, influencing motivation and resilience.
4. Immune and Vascular Pathways: Alters immune-related gene activity and stimulates angiogenic responses in animal models of stroke.
5. Functional Brain Connectivity: Neuroimaging in humans links Semax administration with modulation of the default mode network and enhanced cortical integration.

Citations

1. PubChem Compound Summary for Semax (CID 122178): sequence MEHFPGP; formula C₃₇H₅₁N₉O₁₀S; MW 813.9 Da. Overview of Semax
2. Dolotov OV, et al. “Semax, an analog of ACTH(4–10), induces expression of BDNF in rat brain.” Neurosci Lett. 2006;403(1–2):170–175. PMID: 16750888. Overview of Semax
3. PubChem record confirming sequence and molecular data. Overview of Semax
4. Sharifulina SA, et al. “Semax modulates expression profiles of genes involved in immunity and vascular response in rat focal brain ischemia.” BMC Genomics. 2014;15:228. PMID: 24886652. Overview of Semax
5. Semax suppresses MMP-9, c-Fos, JNK and activates CREB in ischemia model. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22(12):6179. Overview of Semax
6. Shatskova OL, et al. “Semax administration increases hippocampal BDNF and improves performance in learning tests.” Bull Exp Biol Med. 2006;141(6):637–640. PMID: 17200307. Overview of Semax
7. Neurochemical analyses show Semax enhances dopamine and serotonin systems. Dokl Biol Sci. 2005;403(1–2):148–152. PMID: 16182730. Overview of Semax
8. Lebedeva IS, et al. “Effects of Semax on the default mode network in healthy volunteers.” Bull Exp Biol Med. 2018;165(5):653–656. PMID: 30225715. Overview of Semax