Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) fragment, widely explored in research for its potential neurotropic and neuroprotective properties.
Studies frequently investigate Semax in models of cognitive function, neuroplasticity, and stress response, including its influence on BDNF expression, learning processes, and recovery in neurological research settings.
This compound is provided as a lyophilized powder.
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Nootropic Heptapeptide
The BDNF Amplifier: A Synthetic ACTH Fragment for Brain Research
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the 4-10 fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Originally developed in Russia for stroke treatment, it has demonstrated remarkable effects on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), serotonin, and dopamine levels. Unlike ACTH itself, Semax exhibits potent neurotropic and neuroprotective properties without affecting cortisol or the adrenal axis — making it a uniquely focused tool for cognitive and neurological research.
- Synthetic heptapeptide: Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro
- Derived from ACTH (amino acids 4-10)
- Elevates BDNF, serotonin, and dopamine
- No effect on cortisol or adrenal function
- Gene expression changes within 20 minutes
For laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption.
Default Mode Network & Neuroplasticity
How Semax Rewires the Resting Brain
Semax uniquely activates the brain's default mode network (DMN) — the neural system responsible for environmental monitoring, social cognition, and attention switching. fMRI studies show Semax boosts DMN activity, enhancing the brain's readiness to shift from rest to focused states. This increased interconnectivity correlates with improved problem-solving, memory, and creativity. A single dose affects 24 genes related to vascular function and neuroplasticity.
- Activates default mode network (fMRI-confirmed)
- Enhances rest-to-focus state transitions
- Increases brain interconnectivity
- Modulates 24 genes for vascular/neural function
- Rapid gene expression (hippocampus + frontal cortex)
For laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption.
Research Applications
From Stroke Recovery to Depression Research
Semax research spans neuroprotection, cognitive enhancement, and mood regulation. In stroke rehabilitation studies, it accelerates functional recovery and improves motor performance by elevating BDNF. Depression research suggests BDNF-stimulating peptides like Semax may explain why SSRIs take weeks to work — opening new pathways for faster-acting interventions. Additional applications include optic nerve inflammation, immune modulation, and epilepsy-related cognitive protection.
- Stroke: Accelerates recovery, improves motor function
- Neuroprotection: Stabilizes mitochondria, promotes neuron survival
- Depression research: BDNF pathway insights
- Cognitive enhancement: Learning and memory studies
- Immune function and optic nerve inflammation
For laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption.
The Science Behind Neurotropic Signaling: Why Semax Opens New Doors in Brain Research
Semax represents a breakthrough in targeted neurological research. As a synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH's 4-10 fragment, it retains the parent hormone's neurotropic benefits while eliminating effects on the adrenal axis. This clean profile allows researchers to study brain function without confounding cortisol fluctuations — a significant advantage over native ACTH.
The peptide's effects on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are particularly compelling. A single intranasal dose triggers gene expression changes in the hippocampus and frontal cortex within 20 minutes, with pronounced effects on both BDNF and nerve growth factor (NGF). These regions govern memory, learning, concentration, and executive function — explaining Semax's broad cognitive research applications.
fMRI studies have revealed that Semax activates the default mode network, the brain's system for environmental monitoring and social cognition. This network is compromised in Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive disorders, making Semax valuable for understanding baseline attention mechanisms. Increased DMN activity correlates with enhanced brain interconnectivity — associated with creativity, problem-solving, and memory consolidation.
Clinical research applications are extensive. In stroke rehabilitation, Semax accelerates functional recovery and improves motor performance by elevating BDNF and promoting neuroplasticity. Depression research suggests that BDNF stimulation may be the true mechanism behind SSRI efficacy — potentially opening pathways for faster-acting treatments. For teams investigating neuroprotection, cognitive enhancement, mood disorders, or neuroplasticity, Semax provides a uniquely focused tool with decades of research validation.
For research use only. Not for human consumption.