Semax: a review of the research literature on this ACTH-derived neurotrophic peptide
A heptapeptide devoid of corticotropic activity, studied for its influence on BDNF and NGF: an overview of the research literature on Semax.
Contents
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the ACTH(4-10) fragment, initially developed in Russia and extensively studied since in the fundamental neuropharmacology literature.
An ACTH derivative without corticotropic activity
Unlike full-length ACTH, Semax lacks significant corticotropic activity: it does not stimulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and does not notably raise cortisol in the studied models. This dissociation between the ACTH-derived sequence and the absence of an adrenal hormonal effect is one of the most well-documented points in the literature devoted to this peptide.
Reported effects on neurotrophic factors
The literature (published preclinical studies, notably PMID 16996037 and 16635254) reports a rapid increase in the expression of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) and NGF (Nerve Growth Factor) in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of murine models, with an associated modulation of TrkA/TrkB receptors. These two neurotrophic factors are central subjects of study in fundamental neuroscience, involved in synaptic plasticity.
Modulation of neurotransmission systems
Beyond neurotrophic factors, published work describes a modulation of the dopaminergic, serotonergic and cholinergic systems, an increase in endogenous enkephalin, as well as a reduction in neuronal oxidative stress in the studied models.
Preclinical ischemia models
A significant portion of the Semax literature comes from preclinical models of cerebral ischemia and stroke, where neuroprotective effects via inhibition of BAX-mediated neuronal apoptosis have been reported, alongside improved mnemonic and attentional performance in these same animal models.
A peptide studied alongside other cognitive compounds
In our catalog, Selank — another Russian peptide, derived from tuftsin — is frequently cited in the same literature for its anxiolytic properties and its modulation of BDNF, offering an interesting comparative research axis with Semax.
