Semax is one of the most studied research peptides within cognition and neuroprotection research. In this guide we explain, research-only, what Semax is, where it comes from and within which research themes it is studied. Without any health or cognition claims.
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide (sequence Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro), derived from a fragment of the hormone ACTH. In preclinical research it is studied in relation to cognition, neuroprotection and neurotrophic factors such as BDNF. It is not an approved medicine in the EU and is offered for research only, ≥99% pure with a COA per batch.
What is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide with the sequence Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro, derived from the ACTH(4-10) fragment of the hormone adrenocorticotropin. A stabilising Pro-Gly-Pro tail is attached to the active ACTH fragment, which makes the molecule break down more slowly. Seven amino acids, one clear purpose: a stable, well-characterised object of study. New to peptides? First read what peptides are.
Semax also has a notable history. It was developed in Russia and has been registered there as a drug since 1994. That is a regulatory fact, not a recommendation: in the EU Semax is not an approved medicine, and at Peptide Lab it is offered for laboratory and research purposes only.
What is Semax studied for in research?
In research Semax is associated with cognition, neuroprotection and the role of neurotrophic factors such as BDNF. BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) is a protein central to research on memory and neural plasticity. Why does that matter? Because that pathway is exactly what makes Semax a recurring object of study within neuroscience.
One concrete example comes from preclinical research in rats, in which the expression of BDNF and the trkB receptor in the hippocampus was studied after Semax administration (Brain Research, 2006). This is animal research in a preclinical context. It is no proof of effect in humans and no health claims are attached to it.
Semax vs. Selank
Semax and Selank are often mentioned together, but have a different origin: Semax derives from an ACTH fragment, Selank from tuftsin. Both are short synthetic peptides from the same Russian neuropeptide tradition, and both are studied within neuro and cognition research. Still, they are different molecules with their own profile. Read more about the counterpart in what is Selank, or see both in the category cognition & focus. Within the same research direction, DSIP and Epithalon are also studied.
How is Semax reconstituted?
Semax is supplied as a lyophilised powder and reconstituted in the lab with bacteriostatic water. The right ratio depends on the vial strength and the research design. Determine water, concentration and units with the reconstitution calculator, or read the step-by-step explanation in how to reconstitute peptides.
Purity and documentation
Reproducible neuro research requires material with verified purity and full traceability. Every batch of Semax at Peptide Lab is tested by Janoshik Analytical at ≥99% purity by HPLC and mass spectrometry. The lot number on the label points to a public certificate per batch, so you can trace exactly what you have. Read more about our approach on the science page.
This information is general and intended solely for a research context. Peptide Lab supplies Semax for laboratory and research purposes only. Not for human or animal consumption, not a medicine and not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions about Semax
What is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide with the sequence Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro, derived from a fragment of the hormone ACTH (ACTH 4-10). It is studied within cognition and neuroprotection research and is not an approved medicine in the EU.
What is the difference between Semax and Selank?
Both are short synthetic research peptides from the Russian neuropeptide tradition, but with a different origin: Semax derives from an ACTH fragment, Selank from tuftsin. They are often mentioned in the same research field.
What is Semax studied for in research?
In preclinical research Semax is studied in relation to cognition, neuroprotection and the expression of neurotrophic factors such as BDNF and the trkB receptor. No health or cognition claims are attached to it.
Is Semax pure at Peptide Lab?
Yes, Semax is lab-verified at ≥99% purity by HPLC and mass spectrometry, with a public Janoshik certificate per batch. For research purposes only.
Sources & further reading
Independent third-party references — for further reading, not an endorsement or partnership.
- Brain Research (2006) — Semax, BDNF & trkB — Peer-reviewed preclinical study on Semax and the expression of BDNF and the trkB receptor in the rat hippocampus
