Semax

Semax Synthetic ACTH 4 to 10 Analog Peptide | Research Use Only

What it is

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide with the amino acid sequence Met Glu His Phe Pro Gly Pro. It is described as an analog of the adrenocorticotropic hormone fragment ACTH 4 to 10 and is widely used in research exploring neurotrophin linked signaling and neuroprotection related biology. (pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) (sigmaaldrich.com)

Origins and development

Semax was developed as a stabilized regulatory peptide based on a short ACTH fragment concept, with research expanding into brain ischemia models and gene expression studies focused on neurotrophic pathways. Peer reviewed work describes Semax as consisting of an ACTH fragment combined with a Pro Gly Pro motif and discusses mechanistic hypotheses in ischemic stroke models. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Molecular profile

PubChem lists Semax with molecular formula C37H51N9O10S and molecular weight 813.9 g per mol. (pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
A commonly listed single letter sequence is MEHFPGP, corresponding to Met Glu His Phe Pro Gly Pro. (bio-techne.com)

Scientific overview

In simplified terms, Semax is studied as a short regulatory peptide that can influence transcriptional programs in neural tissue models. Experimental studies report changes in expression of neurotrophin related genes and receptors in rat brain models, including BDNF related signaling observations in ischemia contexts. The exact pathways and translation depend on model system, timing, and endpoints used. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Clinical research

Clinical publications indexed in PubMed describe Semax use in stroke related rehabilitation settings, including a study reporting increased plasma BDNF levels alongside functional recovery measures in early period stroke rehabilitation. Earlier clinical literature also describes Semax evaluation in acute ischemic stroke cohorts. These reports do not make Semax FDA approved and broader clinical translation depends on the totality of evidence and regulatory review. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) (europepmc.org)

What researchers study with Semax

Key research focus areas often include
• Neurotrophin and synaptic plasticity gene expression in brain models such as BDNF and related pathways (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
• Neuroprotection linked signaling in ischemia and reperfusion model systems (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
• Peptide stability and handling as a small synthetic regulatory peptide in laboratory workflows (bio-techne.com)

Quality, handling, and storage

This product is intended for controlled laboratory research only. For long term preservation, store lyophilized Semax desiccated below minus 18 degrees Celsius. After reconstitution, store at refrigerated temperature for short term use and for longer storage keep aliquots below minus 18 degrees Celsius. Avoid repeated freeze thaw cycles by aliquoting into single use volumes and keeping containers tightly closed. Follow your COA and label instructions for the most specific stability guidance. (prospecbio.com)

Regulatory and compliance notice

Research Use Only. Not for human or veterinary use. This description is provided for scientific context and must not be used to market Semax for diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease.

Citations and references

1. PubChem. Semax compound record, includes molecular formula and molecular weight.
   https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/ACTH-_4-7_-Pro-Gly-Pro

2. Sigma Aldrich. Semax product page describing Semax as an ACTH 4 to 10 analog and referencing neurotrophin transcription context.
   https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/sigma/s8826

3. Medvedeva EV, et al. Semax regulates gene expression in the rat brain and is discussed as neuroprotective in ischemic stroke models. PubMed record.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28255762/

4. Dmitrieva VG, et al. Semax and Pro Gly Pro activate transcription of neurotrophins in brain ischemia models. PubMed record.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19633950/

5. Gusev EI, et al. Semax in early rehabilitation after stroke with reported BDNF changes and functional recovery measures. PubMed record.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29798983/

6. Gusev EI, et al. Effectiveness of Semax in the acute period of hemispheric ischemic stroke. Europe PMC record.
   https://europepmc.org/article/med/11517472

7. ProSpec Bio. Semax technical page with stability and storage guidance.
   https://www.prospecbio.com/semax

8. Bio Techne Tocris. Semax technical data listing formula, molecular weight, and sequence.
   https://www.bio-techne.com/p/small-molecules-peptides/semax_7712