Semax
Semax (CAS 80714-61-0) is a synthetic heptapeptide of the sequence Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro, derived from the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) fragment ACTH(4–7). Originally developed in Russian ...
Certificate of Analysis included with every order.
Technical Specifications
| Purity | ≥98% |
|---|---|
| Form | Lyophilized Powder |
| Storage | -20°C |
| Molecular Weight | 813.93 g/mol |
| Sequence | Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro |
| CAS Number | 80714-61-0 |
About This Peptide
Semax (CAS 80714-61-0) is a synthetic heptapeptide of the sequence Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro, derived from the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) fragment ACTH(4–7). Originally developed in Russian neuroscience research during the 1980s and 1990s, Semax represents a structurally stabilized analogue of the endogenous ACTH(4–10) sequence, in which the C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro extension confers resistance to enzymatic degradation while retaining the core pharmacophore. With a molecular weight of 813.93 g/mol, this neuropeptide falls within the broader class of melanocortin-related research peptides and is catalogued under the internal code Semax at Pepitiva Biolabs.
The scientific interest surrounding Semax stems from its demonstrated interactions with components of the central nervous system in preclinical models, particularly its reported influence on neurotrophic factor expression and neuroplasticity-related signaling cascades. Researchers have employed Semax as a chemical probe to interrogate ACTH-fragment receptor engagement, serotonergic and dopaminergic pathway modulation, and the regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) in rodent models. Its relative metabolic stability compared to native ACTH(4–7) makes it a practical tool for sustained in vitro and in vivo experimental paradigms.
Available from Pepitiva Biolabs as a lyophilized powder with a confirmed purity of ≥98%, Semax is suitable for use in controlled laboratory settings where consistent batch quality is critical. The compound should be stored at −20 °C to maintain integrity over time, and reconstitution should follow protocols appropriate to the experimental system in use. All material is supplied for research use only. Not for human consumption.
Research Applications
≥98% purity. Lyophilized Powder. Storage: -20°C. For research purposes only.
Mechanism of Action
At the biochemical level, Semax is understood to interact with melanocortin receptor subtypes, particularly MC4R, present in hypothalamic and limbic regions in preclinical models. This receptor engagement is thought to initiate downstream cAMP-dependent signaling via adenylyl cyclase activation, subsequently modulating PKA-mediated phosphorylation events that influence synaptic plasticity and neuroprotective gene transcription. The Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminal extension of Semax is hypothesized to contribute additional interactions distinct from the parent ACTH fragment, potentially engaging receptor conformations that drive differential signaling outcomes compared to shorter analogues.
Beyond direct receptor interactions, preclinical studies have reported that Semax administration is associated with upregulation of BDNF and NGF mRNA in cortical and hippocampal tissue preparations, pointing to a downstream effect on TrkB and TrkA receptor-mediated survival pathways. Concurrently, modulation of serotonin transporter activity and dopamine turnover has been observed in rodent brain tissue following Semax treatment, suggesting pleiotropic interactions across monoaminergic systems. These mechanistic observations make it a valuable probe for dissecting the crosstalk between melanocortin signaling and neurotrophic factor regulation in experimental neuroscience.
Research Applications
Semax is used across a range of preclinical and in vitro research contexts focused on central nervous system signaling, neuropeptide pharmacology, and neuroplasticity. Representative research application areas include:
- Neurotrophic factor regulation studies: Investigating BDNF and NGF mRNA expression changes in primary cortical and hippocampal neuronal cultures following melanocortin peptide exposure.
- Melanocortin receptor pharmacology: Characterizing binding affinity, selectivity, and functional activation profiles at MC3R and MC4R in recombinant cell systems.
- Monoaminergic system modulation: Examining effects on serotonin transporter density and dopamine metabolite levels in ex vivo rodent brain tissue preparations.
- Neuroprotection models: Assessing cellular viability and oxidative stress markers in in vitro ischemia or excitotoxicity paradigms treated with Semax as a reference compound.
- Cognitive behavior research: Supporting rodent models of memory acquisition and spatial learning as a pharmacological tool to probe ACTH-fragment-dependent mechanisms.
- Metabolic stability profiling: Comparative peptide degradation studies contrasting Semax with native ACTH(4–7) in plasma or tissue homogenate assays.
Storage & Handling Guidelines
Proper storage and handling are essential to maintain peptide integrity and ensure reliable research results. All Pepitiva Biolabs peptides are supplied as lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder, which provides excellent long-term stability when stored correctly. Store lyophilized peptides at -20°C for long-term storage or 2-8°C for short-term use. Once reconstituted, peptide solutions should be stored at 2-8°C and used within the timeframe specified in the product documentation. Always use sterile bacteriostatic water for reconstitution and handle peptides in a clean laboratory environment to prevent contamination. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as thermal stress can cause peptide degradation and loss of biological activity.
Quality Control & Certification
This product is manufactured under strict quality control protocols and has been verified through comprehensive analytical testing. Each batch undergoes reverse-phase HPLC analysis for purity determination and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) for molecular identity confirmation. A detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) is available for download, documenting purity percentage, molecular weight verification, appearance, and recommended storage conditions. Pepitiva Biolabs maintains batch-level traceability from synthesis through delivery, ensuring complete transparency and quality assurance for your research.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this product approved for human use?
No. This product is intended exclusively for in vitro scientific research and laboratory use. It is not approved for human or veterinary use, not intended for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, and should not be administered to humans or animals under any circumstances.
How do I reconstitute this peptide?
Add sterile bacteriostatic water slowly to the vial, directing the stream against the glass wall rather than directly onto the lyophilized powder. Gently swirl the vial until the powder is fully dissolved — do not shake vigorously. The recommended reconstitution volume depends on your desired concentration. Refer to the product documentation for specific guidance.
Can I get a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
Yes. A Certificate of Analysis is included with every order and is also available for download from the product page. The COA documents HPLC purity, mass spectrometry identity confirmation, batch number, production date, and storage recommendations.
For research use only. Not for human consumption.