Semax: A Nootropic Peptide in Experimental Research
Semax (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic heptapeptide modeled after a fragment of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH), engineered to be devoid of systemic hormonal activity and focus instead on neurological signaling. It is primarily researched for its nootropic (cognitive) and neuroprotective properties.
Mechanism: neurological signaling
- BDNF upregulation: its most-studied feature — increases Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and its TrkB receptor, key to synaptic plasticity and neuron survival/growth.
- Neurotransmitter modulation: influences dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine — relevant to focus, memory, and mood.
- Neuroprotection: studied for mitigating oxidative stress and neuroinflammation (ischemic/stroke and Alzheimer’s models).
- Melanocortin interaction: evidence of MC4R interaction relevant to cognition and energy homeostasis.
Primary research areas
- Cognitive enhancement — memory, learning, attention.
- Neurodegenerative models — amyloid-beta accumulation, cognitive decline.
- Ischemic recovery — protecting brain tissue after oxygen deprivation.
Canadian regulatory status
- Not authorized by Health Canada for human use; no DIN/NPN.
- Restricted to the research-chemical market — not assessed for safety/efficacy.
- Source only high-purity, COA-backed material from reputable suppliers.
Laboratory handling
- Store lyophilized at −20°C; reconstitute with sterile bacteriostatic water using aseptic technique.
- Light-sensitive — keep vials away from direct light.
Browse research-grade Semax and related cognitive-research peptides like Selank — third-party tested to over 99% purity with a COA.
This guide is part of our Peptides Canada research hub — explore the full library of compound guides.
Note: Educational/research content only. Semax is an experimental research chemical, not for human consumption or therapeutic use.