What is Semax?

Semax is a synthetic seven-amino-acid peptide developed in Russia in the 1980s. It is derived from a short piece of the hormone ACTH and is mainly studied in neuroscience research. Here you can read what Semax is, where it comes from and how to work with it in the lab.

Semax at a glance

Semax is based on the ACTH(4-7) fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), extended with the three amino acids proline-glycine-proline. That Pro-Gly-Pro tail makes the peptide more resistant to enzymatic breakdown.

  • Type: heptapeptide (7 amino acids)
  • Sequence: Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro
  • Derived from: ACTH(4-7) plus Pro-Gly-Pro
  • Molecular weight: about 813 g/mol
  • Form: white lyophilized powder

Origin

Semax was developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Moscow. It is registered as a medicine in Russia; it is not approved in the EU or the US.

The aim was an ACTH fragment without hormonal action on the adrenal gland that would still be of interest for research on the nervous system.

Research areas

Semax is mainly studied in preclinical models, including:

  • Neurotrophic factors such as BDNF in cell and animal models
  • Gene expression in the brain in animal models
  • Ischaemia models in animals
  • Melanocortin signalling pathways

Semax and Selank

Semax is often mentioned together with Selank. Both come from the same institute and share the stabilising Pro-Gly-Pro tail, but they are derived from different parent molecules: Semax from ACTH, Selank from tuftsin. Our Semax vs Selank comparison covers the differences in detail.

Storage and quality

Store lyophilized Semax at −20 °C, dry and protected from light. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic or sterile water and keep the solution at 2–8 °C.

Every batch of Semax from Virexa Labs is tested by HPLC for ≥99% purity and by mass spectrometry for identity; the COA is on the product page. At Virexa Labs, Semax is intended solely for laboratory research and not for human or veterinary use.

Products

Frequently asked questions

What is Semax derived from?

From the ACTH(4-7) fragment of the hormone ACTH, extended with the amino acids proline-glycine-proline.

Is Semax approved in Europe?

No. Semax is registered as a medicine in Russia but not approved in the EU.

What is the difference between Semax and Selank?

Semax is derived from ACTH, Selank from the immune peptide tuftsin. Both are heptapeptides with a Pro-Gly-Pro tail from the same Russian institute.

Is Semax intended for human use?

No. Semax from Virexa Labs is intended solely for laboratory research and not for human or veterinary consumption.

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