Semax
[CAS# 80714-61-0]

Identification

• Classification: Biochemical >> Peptide
• Name: Semax
• Synonyms: L-Methionyl-L-alpha-glutamyl-L-histidyl-L-phenylalanyl-L-prolylglycyl-L-proline
• Molecular Formula: C₃₇H₅₁N₉O₁₀S
• Molecular Weight: 813.92
• Protein Sequence: MEHFPGP
• CAS Registry Number: 80714-61-0
• SMILES: CSCC[C@@H](C(=O)N[C@@H](CCC(=O)O)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC1=CN=CN1)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC2=CC=CC=C2)C(=O)N3CCC[C@H]3C(=O)NCC(=O)N4CCC[C@H]4C(=O)O)N

Properties

• Solubility: Slightly soluble (1.5 g/L) (25 °C), Calc.^*
• Density: 1.391±0.06 g/cm³ (20 °C 760 Torr), Calc.^*

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software V11.02 (©1994-2018 ACD/Labs)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P264-P270-P271-P280-P3022+P352-P304+P340

Discovery and Applications

Semax is a synthetic peptide that was developed in Russia in the 1980s and 1990s as a derivative of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Researchers wanted to create a peptide with neuroprotective and cognitive enhancement properties without the side effects of the ACTH hormone. Semax, composed of seven amino acids Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro, is the product of this research.

Semax works by regulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and stimulating neurogenesis. It enhances the activity of BDNF, supporting the growth and survival of neurons, thereby promoting synaptic plasticity and cognitive function. Semax also has antioxidant properties that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which further enhances its neuroprotective effects.

Semax is primarily used in Russia and its neighboring countries to treat a variety of neurological diseases. Its applications include the treatment of ischemic stroke, helping to improve blood flow and reduce brain damage. Clinical studies have shown that Semax can accelerate recovery by promoting neuroprotection and cognitive function.

Semax has also been used to treat cognitive disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as to enhance cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and attention in healthy individuals. Its ability to increase BDNF levels makes it a potential candidate for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

In addition to its traditional medical uses, Semax is also considered a nootropic - a substance that can enhance cognitive abilities. Users report improvements in memory, attention, and mental clarity, making it popular among those seeking to improve academic or professional cognitive abilities. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects and ensure safety for long-term use.

References

1984. An analog of ACTH4-10 — A long-action stimulator of learning. Pharmaceutical Chemistry Journal, 18(7).
DOI: 10.1007/bf00769795

2017. Semax, an analog of ACTH(4−7), regulates expression of immune response genes during ischemic brain injury in rats. Molecular Genetics and Genomics, 292(3).
DOI: 10.1007/s00438-017-1297-1

2021. Brain Protein Expression Profile Confirms the Protective Effect of the ACTH(4-7)PGP Peptide (Semax) in a Rat Model of Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(12).
DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126179