What is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide with the sequence Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro, derived from the 4-7 fragment of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) with two additional proline-glycine residues at the C-terminus to enhance metabolic stability. The compound was developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, where it and related neuropeptides have been the subject of research since the 1980s.
Semax was designed to retain the cognitive and neuroprotective properties attributed to the ACTH(4-10) fragment — which unlike the full ACTH molecule does not exert adrenocortical activation — while improving metabolic stability through the Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminal extension. In preclinical models, Semax has been studied for effects on cognitive function, BDNF expression, neuroprotection against ischaemic insults, and anxiolytic activity.
ClaraScience supplies Semax in 10mg lyophilised vials independently HPLC-tested to ≥99.0% purity (99.15% verified this batch). For laboratory research use only.
Sequence. Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro — ACTH(4-7) fragment with Pro-Gly-Pro stabilising extension.
Research tradition. 30+ years of Russian Academy of Sciences research literature. Registered pharmaceutical in Russia and Ukraine.
Key studied effects. BDNF upregulation, neuroprotection, cognitive enhancement, anxiolytic activity in preclinical models.
Research Background
Semax has an unusually long research history for a compound not yet approved in Western regulatory markets. The foundational work was published by Ashmarin et al. in Neuroscience and Behavioral Physiology (1995) and expanded across numerous subsequent publications from Russian research institutions. Semax is registered as a pharmaceutical in Russia (under the brand name Semax nasal drops) and Ukraine, providing a distinct clinical context unavailable for most research peptides.
Mechanistically, Semax has been studied for effects on BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) expression in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of rodent models, serotonin and dopamine transporter systems, nitric oxide synthesis in neural tissue, and protective effects against focal cerebral ischaemia in rodent stroke models. The compound's profile encompasses both acute cognitive effects and longer-term neuroprotective mechanisms in preclinical experimental designs.
In the Australian research context, Semax is frequently studied alongside Selank — another Russian Academy neuropeptide with complementary anxiolytic and immunomodulatory properties — as part of cognitive research programmes investigating distinct neurological signalling pathways.
Key citation Ashmarin IP et al. "Semax, an analogue of ACTH(4–10) with a broad spectrum of nootropic and neuroprotective properties." Neurosci Behav Physiol. 1997;27(4):419–426.
Compound Specifications
| Common Name |
Semax (ACTH(4-10) analogue) |
| Sequence |
Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro |
| Molecular Weight |
813.93 g/mol |
| Purity (HPLC) |
≥99.0% (99.15% verified this batch) |
| Vial Size |
10mg lyophilised powder |
| Storage |
2–8°C (short-term) · −20°C (long-term) |
| Primary Reference |
Ashmarin IP et al., Neurosci Behav Physiol 1997;27:419–426 |
Storage & Handling
- Unopened vial: 2–8°C for regular use; −20°C for longer-term storage.
- After reconstitution: 2–8°C, use within 28 days. Avoid freeze-thaw cycles.
- Reconstitution: Sterile bacteriostatic water or saline. Use our free reconstitution calculator.
Full protocols: Storage & Handling Guide.
Ordering & Pricing — Australia
| Quantity |
Price per vial |
Saving |
| 1–4 vials |
$54.95 AUD |
— |
| 5–9 vials |
$49.95 AUD |
Save 9% |
| 10+ vials |
$44.95 AUD |
Save 18% |
Free priority tracked shipping on orders over $250 AUD. Dispatched within 24 hours. Wholesale enquiries welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic ACTH(4-10) analogue heptapeptide (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) developed at the Russian Academy of Sciences. It has been studied for neuroprotective, nootropic, and BDNF-upregulating properties in preclinical models. For laboratory research use only.
Is Semax the same as ACTH?
No. Semax is based on only the 4-7 fragment of the 39-amino-acid ACTH molecule (with stabilising Pro-Gly-Pro extension). Unlike full ACTH, ACTH(4-10) does not exert significant adrenocortical activation — it is the neurologically active fragment without the steroidogenic properties of full ACTH.
What is the difference between Semax and Selank?
Semax (ACTH analogue) is studied primarily for nootropic, neuroprotective, and BDNF effects. Selank (tuftsin analogue) is studied primarily for anxiolytic, anti-anxiety, and immunomodulatory effects via GABA-A modulation and BDNF expression. They represent different neurological research targets from the same Russian research tradition.
Is Semax available in Australia?
ClaraScience stocks Semax in our Australian warehouse. 10mg vials, research-grade, dispatched within 24 hours. For laboratory research use only.
How much does Semax cost in Australia?
$54.95 AUD per 10mg vial. Bulk pricing: 5+ from $49.95 each, 10+ from $44.95 each. Free shipping over $250 AUD.
