Semax

Semax (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic heptapeptide analogue of the ACTH(4-7) fragment, developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Originally researched as a neuroprotective agent following ischemic brain injury, it has accumulated substantial preclinical and clinical data across Russia and Eastern Europe.

Research has focused on Semax's ability to upregulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) in hippocampal and cortical tissue. BDNF upregulation is associated with synaptic plasticity, neuronal survival, and cognitive performance — making Semax of particular interest in models of neurodegenerative disease, cognitive aging, and stroke recovery. Studies have also examined effects on dopaminergic and serotonergic systems.

Semax has a short plasma half-life but is stable in nasal mucosa, which explains the intranasal route used in most clinical applications. At 30mg per vial, the lyophilized form provides a stable source for protocols examining neurotrophin modulation, cognitive function, or neuroprotection.