What is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of the ACTH(4-10) fragment, extended at the C-terminus with Pro-Gly-Pro to resist peptidase cleavage. Unlike the parent hormone fragment, Semax lacks corticotropic activity, which allows researchers to isolate the neurotropic component of melanocortin signaling.
PX1 Research supplies lyophilized Semax as a reference neuropeptide for cognitive, neuroprotection and BDNF-pathway research.
Mechanism of action
Semax has been reported in rodent models to elevate brain-derived neurotrophic factor and its receptor TrkB in the hippocampus, and to modulate dopaminergic and serotonergic turnover. Transcriptomic studies describe broad changes in genes related to the immune response and vascular tone following administration in ischemia models.
In laboratory comparisons Semax and Selank are studied together as the two best-characterized members of the Russian regulatory-peptide class.
Laboratory handling and storage
Semax ships as a lyophilized powder in a sealed, tamper-evident vial. Store the unopened vial between −20°C and −80°C, protected from light, until the day of use. In this state the peptide is stable through the labeled expiration date printed on the lot documentation.
Allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening so atmospheric moisture does not condense onto the lyophilized cake. Introduce bacteriostatic or sterile water slowly against the vial wall, then swirl — never shake — until the solution is clear. Store the reconstituted solution at 2–8°C, aliquot to avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles, and record the lot number in your laboratory notebook alongside the reconstitution date.
Purity, testing and Certificate of Analysis
Every PX1 Research lot of Semax is manufactured in the United States and released against a documented specification of ≥99% purity by reversed-phase HPLC, with identity confirmed on the same lot by high-resolution LC-MS against the theoretical mass of the sequence.
Release testing covers six layers: HPLC purity, LC-MS identity, endotoxin by kinetic chromogenic LAL, residual solvents by gas chromatography, water content by Karl Fischer titration, and visual inspection of appearance and reconstitution. The batch-specific Certificate of Analysis is published on this page, and the lot number on the vial label matches the report so the material in your hand traces back to the data you can read online.
Research use only
Semax supplied by PX1 Research is intended strictly for in-vitro laboratory and research applications. It is not a drug, food, cosmetic, or medical device, and it is not for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment, or consumption.
Researchers are responsible for handling the compound in accordance with their institution's safety procedures and all applicable local regulations. Safety data sheets and current lot documentation are available on this site.
References
- Dolotov 2006. Dolotov OV, et al. Semax, an analogue of ACTH(4-10) with cognitive effects, regulates BDNF and trkB expression in the rat hippocampus. Brain Research. 2006;1117(1):54-60.
All products are sold strictly for laboratory and research use only. Not for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment or consumption. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.