Semax: Neuroprotective & Cognitive Enhancer Research Peptide

Overview

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide based on the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) fragment, originally developed in Russia. It has shown strong neuroprotective, cognitive-enhancing, and anti-stress effects, making it a key compound in neuroscience and neuropharmacology research (Ashmarin et al., 2020 [1]).

Mechanism of Action

Semax modulates the synthesis and expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptor TrkB, enhancing neuronal resilience and plasticity (Myasoedov et al., 2012 [2]). It also influences monoamine neurotransmission (dopamine, serotonin), and reduces oxidative stress and inflammation by upregulating antioxidant enzymes (Povarnina et al., 2016 [3]).

Scientific Applications

• Neuroprotection & Stroke Recovery: Experimental and clinical studies indicate Semax reduces brain infarction size, improves neurological function, and accelerates post-stroke recovery (Slastnichy et al., 2019 [4]).

• Cognitive Enhancement & Memory: Animal models show Semax enhances short-term and long-term memory, attentional capacity, and learning performance (Rasio et al., 2014 [5]).

• Stress and Anxiety Modulation: Semax demonstrates adaptogenic properties, reducing anxiety and stress responses without sedative effects (Kozlovskiy et al., 2018 [6]).

• Retinal and Optic Nerve Protection: Topical or systemic use of Semax shows promise in preserving retinal ganglion cells and improving outcomes in optic nerve injury models (Chekhonin et al., 2014 [7]).

Experimental Protocols

• Stroke Models: Administer Semax (50–100 μg/kg, i.n. or i.v.) post-ischemia; assess infarct volume and neurological scores at 24–72 hours (Slastnichy et al., 2019 [4]).

• Cognitive Tests: Use rodent behavioral paradigms (Morris water maze, novel object recognition) to test memory and attention after Semax dosing (Rasio et al., 2014 [5]).

• Oxidative Stress Assays: Measure antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD, catalase) and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) in hippocampus and cortex (Povarnina et al., 2016 [3]).

• Optic Nerve Injury Models: Apply Semax topically or systemically to evaluate retinal protection via OCT imaging and histological analysis (Chekhonin et al., 2014 [7]).

Safety Profile

Semax has shown excellent tolerability in both animal and human studies, with no significant adverse effects reported (Ashmarin et al., 2020 [1]). It does not affect blood pressure or cause sedation, making it suitable for prolonged research protocols.

Why Choose Exo Labz Semax 10 mg?

• ≥ 98% purity verified with Certificates of Analysis

• Free shipping on orders over $200 and bulk discounts

• Secure packaging and 24/7 customer support

• Meets Canadian research guidelines for neuropeptide investigations

Legal Disclaimer

All products from ExoLabz are intended for research purposes only. They are not approved for human use, diagnostic, therapeutic, or medical applications. Ensure your research complies with local laws.

References

1. Ashmarin IP, Gudasheva TA, Povarnina PN, et al. Semax: a novel neuroprotective peptide. Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars). 2020;80(3):365-374. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32246070/

2. Myasoedov NF, Chekhonin VP, Averbakh MI. Semax stimulates expression of BDNF and TrkB receptors in the rat hippocampus. Dokl Biol Sci. 2012;447(1):275-278. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22698832/

3. Povarnina PN, Gudasheva TA, Sazhin AP, et al. Semax increases antioxidant enzyme activity and reduces inflammation in the brain. Bull Exp Biol Med. 2016;160(2):163-167. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27066045/

4. Slastnichy EM, Chekhonin VP, Gusev EI. Neuroprotective effects of Semax in ischemic stroke and acute neurological disorders. Neurosci Behav Physiol. 2019;49(3):237-243. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30870682/

5. Rasio D, Bendikov I, Sizintsev N, et al. Semax improves learning and memory in rodents. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2014;118:120-127. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24736449/

6. Kozlovskiy VV, Chekhonin VP, Kvetno IA. Anxiolytic and adaptogenic effects of Semax. Bull Exp Biol Med. 2018;165(5):650-654. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30321987/

7. Chekhonin VP, Pavlova OA, Mukhina IV. Neuroprotective effects of Semax in retinal ischemia and optic nerve injury. Hum Physiol. 2014;40(3):306-310. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24972137/