Peptide · Research Monograph · Synthetic heptapeptide analog of ACTH(4-10)

Semax

A nootropic peptide for focus, memory, and brain support

Semax is a nootropic peptide researched for boosting focus, memory, and mental clarity, and for protecting the brain under stress and after injury.

For laboratory research use only — not for human or animal use

Available in the Eon catalog — Semax from $60.00 Certificate of analysis (PDF)

Molecular data

Molecular formulaC37H51N9O10S
Molecular weight813.93 Da
SequenceMet-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro
Sequence length7 residues
Physical formLyophilized Powder
Available sizes10mg

How it works

Neurotrophic

BDNF Modulation

Semax increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels by up to 1.4-fold in specific brain regions, supporting neuronal survival, growth, and synaptic plasticity.

  • Increases BDNF expression up to 1.4×
  • Supports neuronal survival and growth
  • Enhances synaptic plasticity
Neurotransmitter

Serotonin & Dopamine Modulation

Research demonstrates Semax modulates serotonergic and dopaminergic systems, influencing mood regulation, attention, and cognitive processing in preclinical models.

  • Modulates serotonin metabolism
  • Influences dopaminergic signaling
  • Affects noradrenergic pathways
Neuroprotective

Ischemic Protection

In ischemic stroke models, Semax demonstrates neuroprotective effects by reducing infarct volume, modulating inflammatory gene expression, and promoting neuronal survival under oxygen deprivation.

  • Reduces infarct volume in stroke models
  • Anti-inflammatory gene modulation
  • Protects neurons from oxidative stress

What the research shows

Cognitive

Memory & Learning

Enhances cognitive function, memory consolidation, and attention in animal models. Approved as a nootropic in Russia since 2011.

Ashmarin et al. 2006

Neuroprotection

Stroke Recovery

Reduces ischemic brain damage and promotes neuronal survival in cerebral ischemia models. Used clinically in Russia for stroke recovery.

Gusev et al. 2010

Neurotrophic

BDNF & Nerve Growth

Modulates expression of neurotrophins and their receptors, supporting neuronal plasticity and regeneration pathways.

Agapova et al. 2010

Anti-Inflammatory

Immune Modulation

Reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulates oxidative stress-related gene expression in hippocampal tissue.

Agapova et al. 2011

Specification

Strength10mg
Molecular FormulaC37H51N9O10S
Molecular Weight813.93 g/mol
Purity>99% (HPLC)
FormLyophilized Powder
SequenceMet-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro
OriginSynthetic analog of ACTH(4-10)
TestingThird-party HPLC, Mass Spec, Endotoxin
Storage (lyophilized)-20°C for up to 24 months
Storage (reconstituted)2–8°C, use within 21 days
SolubilityBacteriostatic water for reconstitution
COAIncluded with every order
AppearanceWhite to off-white powder

Frequently asked questions

What is Semax and where does it come from?

Semax (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the first four amino acids of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH 4-10). It was developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences in the 1980s and has been approved in Russia as a prescription nootropic since 2011.

What has research shown about Semax?

Research has demonstrated that Semax may increase BDNF levels by up to 1.4-fold, modulate serotonergic and dopaminergic systems, have neuroprotective effects in ischemic stroke models, enhance cognitive function and memory in animal studies, and display anti-inflammatory properties.

Is Semax FDA approved?

Semax is not approved by the FDA for any medical use in the United States. It is approved in Russia as a prescription medication for cognitive disorders and stroke recovery. In the US, it is available only as a research peptide for in vitro laboratory use.

How does Semax differ from N-Acetyl Semax?

N-Acetyl Semax (NASA) has an acetyl group added to the N-terminus, increasing stability and resistance to enzymatic degradation. This results in a longer half-life and potentially enhanced bioavailability compared to standard Semax.

How should Semax be stored?

Lyophilized Semax should be stored at -20°C for long-term stability (up to 24 months). After reconstitution, store at 2-8°C and use within 21 days. Protect from heat and direct light.

Literature

  • PubMed Semax, an ACTH(4-10) analogue with cognitive-enhancing properties 2006 · Ashmarin IP et al.
  • PubMed Neuroprotective effects of Semax in conditions of cerebral ischemia 2010 · Gusev EI et al.
  • PubMed Semax modulates the expression of neurotrophins and their receptors 2010 · Agapova TYu et al.
  • PubMed Molecular mechanisms underlying effects of Semax on hippocampal gene expression 2011 · Agapova TYu et al.

For laboratory research use only. Not a drug, supplement, or medical product; not for human or animal use. All findings referenced are from published preclinical/laboratory research.