Semax

Semax (ACTH 4-7 Analog) Research Standard

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the ACTH(4–7) fragment of the adrenocorticotropic hormone. By retaining the core Met–Glu–His–Phe sequence and appending a C-terminal Pro–Gly–Pro tripeptide, the molecule gains significant resistance to enzymatic proteolysis. In laboratory and animal-model research, Semax is utilized as a reference compound to investigate neurotrophin expression, specifically brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), its receptor TrkB, and nerve growth factor (NGF).

Technical Specifications

Mechanism of Action & Research Context

Semax’s primary research interest lies in its structural stability and observed effects on neurotrophic signaling.

• Enzymatic Resistance: The C-terminal Pro–Gly–Pro tripeptide substitution is the most consistently reproduced property in literature, conferring stability against proteolysis that would typically degrade shorter ACTH fragments.

• Neurotrophic Signaling: Published rodent hippocampal studies report modulation of BDNF, TrkB, and NGF expression. These findings position Semax as a tool for studying the maintenance and regulation of neurotrophic factor levels in neural tissue.

• Regulatory & Evidence Status: Semax is a registered pharmaceutical in the Russian Federation but is not FDA-approved for any indication in the United States. Current research evidence supports its chemically defined structure and rodent-model neurotrophin findings; however, claims regarding cognitive improvement or stress modulation in humans lack a robust, replicated Western evidence base.

Research Applications

Semax serves as a specialized reference material for neurobiological investigation.

Primary fields of in vitro and animal-model laboratory investigation include:

• Neurotrophin Expression Studies: Analyzing the impact of the peptide on BDNF and NGF production in hippocampal cells.

• Peptide Stability Research: Utilizing the Pro–Gly–Pro tail as a model to study the resistance of heptapeptides to enzymatic degradation.

• Signaling Pathways: Investigating potential melanocortin-receptor interactions, though evidence in this area remains limited and is a subject of ongoing mechanistic study.

• Analytical Benchmarking: Establishing LC-MS/MS protocols for the identification and quantification of synthetic ACTH-analog peptides.

Storage & Handling Guidelines

To maintain the chemical stability and experimental viability of the peptide:

• Storage Environment: Store in its lyophilized form in a cold, dry place. Maintain at temperatures below 0°C (typically -20°C) for long-term stability.

• Light Protection: Protect strictly from direct light to prevent degradation of the peptide chain.

• Integrity: Ensure the container is kept tightly sealed to prevent moisture ingress.

• Aseptic Technique: Handle with clean, sterile laboratory equipment. Once reconstituted in buffered solutions, minimize freeze-thaw cycles by creating appropriate aliquots.

Research Use Disclaimer

Research Use Only Disclaimer: This product is developed and distributed strictly as a Research Use Only (RUO) laboratory reference chemical intended exclusively for non-clinical analytical and scientific investigation. It is not an FDA-approved drug, medical treatment, dietary supplement, or food ingredient, and is strictly prohibited for human or animal consumption. Kimera Chems supplies this high-purity research material solely to qualified institutions and professional investigators for authorized laboratory research.