Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) fragment 4-10. Through advanced peptide synthesis techniques, this compound has been developed to investigate neurotrophic factor expression, specifically brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), within in-vitro cellular models. As a premium research chemical, UK laboratories frequently utilise Semax to study cellular signalling cascades and neuronal survival pathways without the hormonal activity typically associated with full-length ACTH. To maintain optimal molecular stability during experimental procedures, researchers must employ precise reconstitution protocols using a Bacteriostatic Reconstitution Solution. Detailed cellular assays often compare its binding affinity and receptor interactions with related peptides, which you can explore further in our analysis of Selank Vs Semax Peptide Mechanisms. For comprehensive structural data, researchers can consult its primary registry on PubChem.
Current literature uses the search phrase "nasal spray" and "reviews" when cataloguing public interest in this compound. Research trends summarise those papers as observations in isolated cell cultures and molecular stability tests, rather than consumer protocols. Amino Peptides supplies Semax only as a lyophilised laboratory reagent for controlled lab experiments. Strictly for laboratory research.
- Modulates melanocortin receptors (MC4R and MC5R) within cell-free homogenates, altering downstream cyclic AMP (cAMP) accumulation.
- Interacts with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) receptor TrkB, facilitating receptor dimerization in isolated neuroglial cultures.
- Binds to enkephalin-degrading enzymes, acting as a competitive inhibitor to prevent the hydrolysis of endogenous opioid peptides in molecular models.
- Upregulates the transcription of BDNF and nerve growth factor (NGF) mRNA in isolated neuronal cell lines via CREB phosphorylation pathways.
- Inhibits the enzymatic degradation of enkephalins by metalloproteinases, thereby prolonging the half-life of these peptides in cell-free environments.
- Attenuates reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in cultured cells subjected to oxidative stress by enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression.
Technical Specifications
Variant Breakdown
- 5mg Vial: Contains 5mg of highly purified, lyophilised Semax peptide, providing a standard baseline for preparing precise laboratory stock solutions and conducting laboratory evaluation-dependent cellular assays.
Quality Assurance
- HPLC Analysis: High-performance liquid chromatography is utilised to confirm a purity level exceeding 99%, ensuring no significant synthesis by-products interfere with research data.
- Mass Spectrometry: Advanced mass spectrometry validates the exact molecular weight (813.9 g/mol), confirming the structural integrity of the synthesised sequence.
- Lyophilisation: The peptide is strictly lyophilised under controlled conditions to maximise long-term molecular stability prior to laboratory reconstitution.
- Endotoxin Testing: Rigorous screening guarantees an endotoxin limit of less than 0.5 EU/mg, preventing inflammatory artefacts in sensitive cell culture environments.
Research Mechanism
- Neurotrophin Upregulation: Semax interacts with cellular receptors to stimulate the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) in vitro.
- Enzymatic Inhibition: The peptide acts as a competitive inhibitor of enkephalin-degrading enzymes, protecting endogenous regulatory peptides from rapid breakdown during cellular assays.
- Gene Expression Modulation: In-vitro studies indicate that Semax alters the transcription of genes related to immune responses and cellular survival pathways when exposed to oxidative stress.
- Synaptic Plasticity Models: By modifying the local concentration of neurotrophins, the compound supports structural changes in cultured neuronal networks, providing a reliable model for neuroplasticity research.
Reconstitution & Storage Data
| Vial Strength | Solvent Added | Resulting Concentration |
| 5mg | 1 mL Bacteriostatic Reconstitution Solution | 5.00 mg/mL |
| 5mg | 2 mL Bacteriostatic Reconstitution Solution | 2.50 mg/mL |
- Lyophilised (Powder): Store in a standard refrigerator (2-8°C) for up to 3 months. For long-term preservation, freeze at -20°C.
- Reconstituted (Liquid): Store at 2-8°C (Refrigerated).
Scientific References
Neuroscience Letters: "The effects of Semax on the expression of BDNF and NGF in the rat brain" View Study
Peptides: "Semax, an analogue of ACTH(4-10), with cognitive effects" View Study
BMC Genomics: "Transcriptome analysis of the cerebral cortex after Semax administration" View Study
Molecular Neurobiology: "Neuroprotective effects of Semax in experimental models" View Study
European Journal of Pharmacology: "Semax and its C-terminal fragments: binding and functional activity" View Study
