Semax
Heptapeptide ACTH(4-10) analog studied in neuroprotection and cognition research models. Lyophilized, HPLC-verified.
Read about Semax in the peptide library →The signed certificate for the current Semaxlot isn't published on this page yet. Every lot is tested and the lot-specific COA is available on request — we will not show a certificate that isn't the one in your vial.
Request this lot's signed COA →For laboratory research use only.
Overview
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide built from the ACTH(4-7) fragment with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro extension that blocks rapid enzymatic degradation. It carries no corticotropic activity, which is why it is used as a reference standard in neurotrophic and cognition research rather than endocrine work.
Mechanism
Reported to elevate BDNF and its TrkB receptor expression in hippocampal tissue, and to modulate monoamine turnover. The Pro-Gly-Pro tail markedly extends stability against peptidases relative to the parent ACTH fragment while removing melanocortin-driven steroidogenesis.
Research applications
- BDNF / TrkB expression assays
- Hippocampal neurogenesis and neuroplasticity models
- Monoamine turnover and neurotransmitter panels
- Cerebral ischemia and neuroprotection research
- Peptidase-stability comparisons against ACTH(4-7)
Reconstitution
Allow vial to reach room temperature before opening (at least 20 minutes). Reconstitute with 1.0 to 2.5 mL of sterile bacteriostatic water (0.9% benzyl alcohol). Inject solvent slowly down the inner wall of the vial; do not direct the stream onto the lyophilized cake. Swirl gently for 30 seconds. Do not vortex. Allow to dissolve for 5 minutes; clarity should be complete with no visible particulates.
Storage & handling
Reconstituted solution is stable for 28 days at 2 to 8 C in the original vial. For longer storage, aliquot into low-binding tubes and hold at -80 C; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Discard if turbidity, color change, or particulate matter is observed.
Selected references
- 1. Dolotov OV et al. Semax, an ACTH(4-7) analog, regulates BDNF expression in the rat hippocampus. J Neurosci Res. 2006;84(8):1670-1677.
- 2. Ashmarin IP et al. Semax in the treatment of ischaemic stroke. Neurosci Behav Physiol. 2005;35(9):879-885.
Semax on PubMed
Independent published literature indexed on PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Provided for laboratory research reference only.
- PMID 16634437[Comparison of anticoagulant effects of regulatory proline-containing oligopeptides. Specificity of glyprolines, semax, and selank and potential of their practical application]Izv Akad Nauk Ser Biol · 2006 · PubMed →
- PMID 19633950Semax and Pro-Gly-Pro activate the transcription of neurotrophins and their receptor genes after cerebral ischemiaCell Mol Neurobiol · 2010 · PubMed →
- PMID 40692165Semax peptide targets the μ opioid receptor gene Oprm1 to promote deubiquitination and functional recovery after spinal cord injury in female miceBr J Pharmacol · 2025 · PubMed →
Semax questions
- What is Semax?
- Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide built from the ACTH(4-7) fragment with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro extension that blocks rapid enzymatic degradation. It is supplied as a lyophilized research reference standard.
- What purity is Semax, and is there a COA?
- Every lot of Semax is independently verified by Janoshik (reverse-phase HPLC for purity, mass spec for identity) to a ≥99% purity floor. The lot-specific Certificate of Analysis is tied to the number on the vial label and available on request.
- How is Semax shipped in Canada?
- Semax ships domestically across Canada, dispatched within 24-48 hours via Canada Post Xpresspost and arriving in about four days. No border to cross, no customs. Flat $25 CAD shipping, free over $200.
- How do I reconstitute Semax?
- Allow vial to reach room temperature before opening (at least 20 minutes). Reconstitute with 1.0 to 2.5 mL of sterile bacteriostatic water (0.9% benzyl alcohol). Inject solvent slowly down the inner wall of the vial; do not direct the stream onto the lyophilized cake. Swirl gently for 30 seconds. Do not vortex. Allow to dissolve for 5 minutes; clarity should be complete with no visible particulates.
- How should Semax be stored?
- Reconstituted solution is stable for 28 days at 2 to 8 C in the original vial. For longer storage, aliquot into low-binding tubes and hold at -80 C; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Discard if turbidity, color change, or particulate matter is observed.
- Is Semax legal to buy in Canada?
- Semax is sold as a laboratory research reference standard, for laboratory research use only. It is legal to sell for that purpose and is not approved by Health Canada as a drug.
