Semax: ACTH-Derived Neuropeptide Research Guide

Semax (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH(4-10). It combines the ACTH(4-7) fragment with a stabilizing Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminal tripeptide, extending its half-life while eliminating hormonal effects. Molecular Weight: 813.92 Da Administration: Intranasal or subcutaneous (poor oral bioavailability) Half-life: 20-24 hours Research demonstrates Semax may affect: - Memory and learning through neurotrophin modulation (BDNF/TrkB) - Serotonergic and dopaminergic pathway activation - Attention and short-term memory processes - BDNF levels in hippocampus within hours of administration Studies in ischemia models show: - 394 differentially expressed genes at 24 hours post-treatment - Reduced inflammatory cytokine expression (IL-17, TNF) - Decreased neutrophil activation - Restored dopaminergic, cholinergic, and glutamatergic synapse genes - Modulated stress kinase and tissue damage markers Anti-aggregation studies reveal: - Inhibition of copper-ind