Semax

Semax Overview: A Versatile Nootropic Peptide

Semax is a synthetic peptide originally developed in Russia to support recovery in conditions like stroke, cognitive impairment, and optic nerve issues. Renowned for its neuroprotective effects, Semax has shown potential in enhancing brain health, boosting BDNF levels, and improving immune function. It also exhibits cardioprotective properties and may aid in pain management and blood clotting regulation. As a key focus in nootropic research and peptide therapy, Semax offers promising benefits for cognitive enhancement and overall neurological health.

Semax Structure: Molecular Details and Sequence

Understanding the structure of Semax is crucial for researchers studying nootropic peptides and peptide therapy. Below are the key structural details of this Semax peptide:

• Sequence: Ac-Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro
• Molecular Formula: C₃₇H₅₁N₉O₁₀S
• Molecular Weight: 813.929 g/mol
• PubChem CID: 122178
• CAS Number: 80714-61-0

The unique Semax structure enables its interaction with the central nervous system, making it a valuable compound in neuroprotective research and cognitive enhancement studies.

What is Semax? A Synthetic ACTH Derivative

Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), specifically consisting of amino acids 4-10 of ACTH. This Semax peptide is renowned for its nootropic effects, enhancing brain function by increasing BDNF levels. It also supports immune function, offers neuroprotection, and improves cardiovascular health. Additionally, Semax may contribute to pain management and blood clotting regulation, making it a promising candidate in peptide therapy research and neurological health.

Semax Research: Exploring Benefits and Applications

Semax Affects Resting Brain Structure

Research on Semax and brain structure using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) reveals its ability to enhance the function of the default mode network (DMN). Studies show that Semax peptide increases activity in brain areas associated with attention, social cognition, and memory, supporting its role in cognitive enhancement and neurological health.

Semax in the Setting of Stroke

Semax for stroke recovery has shown promise in research, particularly for ischemic stroke. By promoting neuroprotection and enhancing BDNF levels, Semax supports the regeneration of blood vessels and neurons, aiding in stroke rehabilitation and improving functional recovery.

Semax and Gene Expression in the Brain

Studies on Semax and gene expression indicate its influence on brain health by upregulating genes related to immune function and neuroprotection. In rat models, Semax has been shown to modulate gene expression in the hippocampus and frontal cortex, supporting memory enhancement and cognitive function.

Semax and Cognitive Performance

Semax for cognitive performance is effective in enhancing memory, attention, and learning. Research in both healthy and impaired subjects demonstrates that Semax boosts BDNF levels, improving brain function and making it a valuable nootropic peptide for cognitive support.

Semax and Depression

Semax for depression research highlights its potential to alleviate depressive symptoms by increasing BDNF levels and serotonin activity. Studies in mice suggest that Semax may offer a novel approach to depression treatment, with fewer side effects compared to traditional antidepressants.

References for Semax Research

1. Effects of Semax on the Default Mode Network of the Brain by I. S. Lebedeva et al., Bull. Exp. Biol. Med., vol. 165, no. 5, pp. 653–656, Sep. 2018. (Note: Full access may require a subscription)
2. On the relationship between the default mode network and the social brain by R. B. Mars et al., Front. Hum. Neurosci., vol. 6, 2012.
3. The peptide semax affects the expression of genes related to the immune and vascular systems in rat brain focal ischemia: genome-wide transcriptional analysis by E. V. Medvedeva et al., BMC Genomics, vol. 15, no. 228, Mar. 2014.
4. The efficacy of semax in the treatment of patients at different stages of ischemic stroke by E. I. Gusev et al., Zh. Nevrol. Psikhiatr. im. S. S. Korsakova, vol. 118, no. 3, Vyp. 2, pp. 61–68, 2018. (Note: Full access may require a subscription)
5. Effect of semax on the temporary dynamics of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and nerve growth factor gene expression in the rat hippocampus and frontal cortex by T. I. Agapova et al., Mol. Genet. Mikrobiol. Virusol., no. 3, pp. 28–32, 2008. (Note: Full access may require a subscription)
6. Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Protects Learning and Memory Function in Epileptic Kcna1-null mice by H. K. Dolotov et al., Neurosci. Lett., vol. 645, pp. 14–18, Apr. 2017. (Note: Full access may require a subscription)
7. The effect of Semax and its C-end peptide ACTH(4-10) on the Morphofunctional State of Hepatocytes and Endotheliocytes in Liver Damage by I. S. Lebedeva et al., Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, vol. 151, pp. 168–171, 2011.
8. Influence of ACTH(4-7)-PGP (Semax) on Morphofunctional State of Hepatocytes in Chronic Emotional Painful Stress by I. S. Lebedeva et al., Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, vol. 163, 2017. (Note: Full access may require a subscription)
9. The effect of ACTH(4-7)-PGP peptide in lipid peroxidation in liver and activity of serum transaminases in rats under acute and chronic immobilization stress conditions by I. S. Lebedeva et al., 78, 18–21, 2015.