SEMAX
A synthetic heptapeptide analog of ACTH(4–10), Semax is a key tool compound in neurotrophic and cognitive-neuroscience research. Each Vitalyx Bio vial contains 10 mg of Semax as a lyophilized powder, supplied strictly for in-vitro and laboratory research.
Semax (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) engineered to retain neurotrophic activity while lacking ACTH’s corticosteroid-stimulating action. A C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro sequence gives the peptide notable resistance to peptidase degradation, and this dissociation of effects has made it a widely cited compound in BDNF-signaling and neuroplasticity research.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
- BDNF & trkB Upregulation — studies using quantitative PCR and ELISA demonstrate that Semax increases BDNF mRNA and protein expression, alongside trkB tyrosine phosphorylation, in the hippocampus, cortex, and basal forebrain.
- Melanocortin Receptor Modulation — as an ACTH fragment, Semax is investigated for melanocortin-receptor-mediated signaling distinct from the corticosteroid-stimulating activity of its parent hormone.
- Monoamine System Modulation — research explores its influence on dopaminergic and serotonergic signaling as a component of its cognitive-performance profile.
- Copper Chelation & Oxidative Stress — in-vitro assays report that Semax chelates Cu(II) ions and reduces associated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, a mechanism of interest in neurodegenerative-research models.
RESEARCH APPLICATIONS
- Neuroplasticity Research — investigated for its role in hippocampal neurotrophic signaling and synaptic plasticity pathways.
- Cognitive Performance Models — studied in models assessing learning, memory, and cognitive performance.
- Neuroprotection Studies — explored for neuroprotective activity via NGF- and BDNF-mediated pathways, as well as copper-chelation-linked oxidative stress reduction.
STORAGE & RECONSTITUTION
Keep the sealed, lyophilized vial cool, dry, and out of light, where it remains stable long-term before reconstitution. Reconstitute using sterile bacteriostatic water, directing the stream gently down the inside wall of the vial rather than onto the powder, and swirl — do not shake — until fully dissolved; foaming or clouding can indicate the peptide chain has been physically disrupted. Once reconstituted, store refrigerated at 2–8°C, avoid freeze–thaw cycles, and follow your laboratory’s handling protocols.
This compound is strictly for in-vitro laboratory research use only and is not for human consumption, diagnostic, or therapeutic purposes.
REFERENCES
- Dolotov, O.V., et al. (2006). Semax, an analog of ACTH(4–10) with cognitive effects, regulates BDNF and trkB expression in the rat hippocampus. Brain Research.
- Tomasello, M.F., et al. (2025). Semax, a copper chelator peptide, decreases the Cu(II)-catalyzed ROS production. Bioinorganic Chemistry and Applications.
