Derived from adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), Semax is known for its neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects. It is used in research for its potential in treating stroke, ADHD, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Common Name:
Semax

Compound Name:
Semax

Chemical Formula:
C37H51N9O10S

Molecular Weight:
813.93 g/mol

Sequence and Amino Acid Composition:

• Sequence: Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro
• Amino Acid Profile:
  • Methionine (M):
    • Frequency: 1
    • Properties: Sulfur-containing, essential amino acid
    • Role in the Peptide: Acts as an antioxidant and provides a start signal for peptide synthesis.
  • Glutamic Acid (E), Histidine (H), Phenylalanine (F):
    • Properties: Glutamic acid is polar and charged, histidine can bind and release protons, phenylalanine is aromatic and hydrophobic.
    • Roles in the Peptide: Enhance neurotransmitter modulation and cognitive function.
  • Proline (P) and Glycine (G):
    • Frequency: Multiple
    • Properties: Proline introduces kinks in peptide chains, glycine is small and flexible.
    • Role in the Peptide: Contribute to the structural flexibility and functional interactions of the peptide with neuronal receptors.

Structure:
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide, a modified fragment of the naturally occurring human brain hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Its structure is designed to enhance its stability and penetration into the brain.

Synthesis Method:
Synthesized through solid-phase peptide synthesis, allowing for high precision in peptide chain assembly and ensuring high purity.

Solubility:
Soluble in water and physiological saline, facilitating its administration via nasal spray or subcutaneous injection.

Stability:
Stable at room temperature for short periods when in use; for long-term storage, it should be kept in lyophilized form at -20°C.

Function:
Semax primarily acts as a neuroprotective and nootropic agent. It modulates the expression and release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), enhancing cognitive function and memory. It also has effects on the immune and endocrine systems, contributing to its wide-ranging therapeutic potentials.

Benefits and Uses:

• Used to enhance memory and cognitive functions, particularly under stressful conditions or during neurological recovery processes.
• Investigated for its potential in treating various disorders such as stroke, transient ischemic attacks, memory disorders, and optic nerve diseases.
• Shown to have anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects, adding to its therapeutic profile.

Side Effects:
Semax is generally well-tolerated, with few reported side effects. Some individuals may experience mild irritation at the site of administration or slight headaches.

Regulatory Status:
Approved in Russia for clinical use in the treatment of neurological disorders and conditions involving cognitive impairment. Not widely approved outside of Russia but used in some experimental and clinical research contexts internationally.

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