Semax
Research Overview · Mechanism of Action · Reconstitution Guide
Overview
Semax (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic heptapeptide analogue of the ACTH(4-7) fragment, developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminal extension significantly increases metabolic stability compared to the parent ACTH fragment. Semax has been approved in Russia for stroke treatment and cognitive enhancement and has been extensively studied for its nootropic, neuroprotective, and neurotrophic properties.
Mechanism of Action
Semax upregulates BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and NGF (nerve growth factor) expression in hippocampal and cortical neurons, promoting neuronal survival and synaptic plasticity. It modulates dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission, enhancing attention and working memory in animal models. Semax also inhibits enkephalin-degrading enzymes, prolonging endogenous opioid peptide activity. Anti-inflammatory effects are mediated through downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) in neuroinflammation models.
Key Studies & References
Dolotov OV et al. (2006). Semax, an analog of ACTH(4-7) with cognitive effects, regulates BDNF and trkB expression in the rat hippocampus. Brain Res 1117:54–60.
Eremin KO et al. (2005). Semax activates the dopaminergic and serotonergic brain systems in rodents. Bull Exp Biol Med 139:703–705.
Miasoedov NF et al. (1999). Analysis of behavioral effects of semax in rats. Peptides 20:397–402.
Bacteriostatic Water Reconstitution Guide
Research Use Only — The following reconstitution information is provided for in vitro laboratory research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use.
Recommended Solvent
Bacteriostatic water (0.9% benzyl alcohol) or sterile saline
Standard Volume
Add 1 mL bacteriostatic water to a 1 mg vial to yield a 1000 mcg/mL solution.
Working Concentration
1000 mcg/mL standard. May dilute to 100–500 mcg/mL for lower-dose research protocols.
Storage (Reconstituted)
Reconstituted: 2–8°C, use within 28 days. Lyophilized: -20°C, desiccated.
Stability Window
28 days refrigerated. Semax is relatively stable in solution.
Technique
Inject solvent slowly. Swirl gently. Semax dissolves readily. Solution should be clear and colorless.
Notes
Semax is also studied via intranasal administration in research models. For intranasal protocols, sterile saline is typically used as the vehicle rather than bacteriostatic water.
Research Dosing Reference
The following dosing information is derived from published preclinical research literature and is provided for reference purposes only.
Clinical / Human Research Range
Russian clinical use: 12–18 mcg/kg intranasal daily. Stroke protocols: 0.1% nasal drops.
Preclinical Models
Rodent studies: 25–100 mcg/kg subcutaneous or intranasal.
Calculation Example
For a 1000 mcg/mL solution: a 100 mcg research dose = 0.1 mL (10 units on a 100-unit insulin syringe).