Semax

Semax is a seven-residue peptide combining an ACTH fragment with a Pro-Gly-Pro segment, studied in rat gene-expression models.

Identity

Sequence

H-MEHFPGP-OH

Residues

7

Molecular formula

C₃₇H₅₁N₉O₁₀S

Average molecular weight

813.9 g/mol

Monoisotopic mass (calculated)

813.3480 Da

CAS number

80714-61-0

PubChem CID

9811102

Strengths

5–10 mg

Other names

ACTH (4-7)-Pro-Gly-Pro · Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro

Identity data from: PubChem CID 9811102

Research overview

Semax is a heptapeptide with the sequence Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro. Its first four residues correspond to ACTH (4-7), followed by the Pro-Gly-Pro segment at the carboxyl end. The structure given here has a free amino terminus and a free carboxyl terminus. The complete sequence therefore contains one methionine, one glutamate, one histidine, one phenylalanine, two prolines and one glycine. The later rat study examined both this complete peptide and its Pro-Gly-Pro segment [2].

An early study examined BDNF expression in several brain regions of rats exposed to Semax [1]. A later investigation measured messenger RNA for neurotrophins and their receptors in rat cortex after permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion. Its design included rats without surgery, rats with sham surgery and rats with arterial occlusion. Samples were analysed at three time points after occlusion, with Semax and Pro-Gly-Pro evaluated in the same experimental framework. Samples were examined at 3, 24 and 72 hours after occlusion [2].

The cortical measurements included Bdnf, Ngf and Nt-3, alongside the receptor transcripts TrkA, TrkB and TrkC. The authors reported partially overlapping transcription patterns for Semax and Pro-Gly-Pro, with differences across sampling times and experimental groups. Their analysis compared transcription changes in the occlusion model with changes in the two other groups [2].

Laboratory storage and handling

Store the sealed vial at the temperature specified in the lot documentation, protected from light and moisture. Allow the closed vial to reach room temperature before opening to limit condensation on the material. Avoid repeated freezing and thawing of laboratory stocks. Record the lot identifier and storage history with the experiment, and use standard laboratory protective equipment when handling the peptide.

Questions about Semax

References

1. The heptapeptide SEMAX stimulates BDNF expression in different areas of the rat brain in vivo. Dokl Biol Sci 2003. PMID 14556513
2. Semax and Pro-Gly-Pro activate the transcription of neurotrophins and their receptor genes after cerebral ischemia. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2010. PMID 19633950

Identity data checked on 2026-09-24. Literature summaries describe published research models and are not specifications of any product lot.