Semax
Semax (ACTH 4-10 Analog with Pro-Gly-Pro)
The neuroprotective peptide
A synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH (4-10) with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro tripeptide extension for stability. Developed in Russia and approved there for stroke recovery and cognitive enhancement. Semax upregulates BDNF, modulates the melanocortin system, and supports neuroplasticity without stimulant-like side effects.
Key Benefits
BDNF upregulation supporting neuroplasticity and memory
Improved attention, focus, and cognitive processing speed
Neuroprotective effects during ischemic or oxidative stress
Anxiolytic properties without sedation or cognitive blunting
Stroke recovery support (approved indication in Russia)
Mechanism of Action
How Semax works
Semax enhances brain function through neurotrophic and melanocortin pathways:
- BDNF upregulation — increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, the key growth factor for neuroplasticity, memory consolidation, and neuronal survival
- Melanocortin system modulation — activates MC3/MC4 receptors in the brain, influencing attention, learning, and stress response without the adrenal effects of full-length ACTH
- NGF and TrkB signaling — increases nerve growth factor and activates TrkB receptors, supporting axonal growth and synaptic strengthening
- Neuroprotective anti-oxidant effects — reduces lipid peroxidation and oxidative damage in neural tissue, protecting neurons during ischemia and excitotoxicity
Your Genetics & Semax
Genetic variants that affect your response
These SNPs determine how effectively Semax works for you specifically. A genetic peptide report identifies your variants before you start.
The Val66Met polymorphism reduces activity-dependent BDNF secretion by ~25%. Met carriers have lower baseline neuroplasticity — Semax's BDNF upregulation may be proportionally more impactful, compensating for this genetic deficit in neurotrophic support.
COMT Val158Met determines prefrontal cortex dopamine levels. Val/Val (warrior) clears dopamine fast — may benefit more from Semax's dopaminergic modulation. Met/Met (worrier) has high baseline dopamine — cognitive effects may manifest differently, favoring focus over motivation.
NTRK2 encodes the TrkB receptor that BDNF binds to activate neuroplasticity cascades. Variants affecting TrkB receptor density or signaling efficiency determine how effectively Semax's BDNF upregulation translates into actual synaptic strengthening.
MC4R variants affect melanocortin receptor sensitivity in the brain. Since Semax activates MC3/MC4 receptors for its cognitive and attentional effects, receptor variants may modulate the magnitude of these benefits.
Which variants do you carry?
Upload your DNA data or order a kit to find out.
Evidence & Research
40+
Published studies
Animal studies and in vitro data with promising but limited clinical validation
Common Stacks
Semax is commonly combined with:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Semax used for?
Semax is used for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, and stroke recovery. It upregulates BDNF (the brain's growth factor), improves attention and memory, and protects neurons from oxidative damage. In Russia, it is an approved pharmaceutical for stroke and cognitive disorders. Elsewhere, it is used as a research peptide for nootropic purposes.
Does BDNF Val66Met affect Semax response?
Yes, significantly. The BDNF Val66Met (rs6265) polymorphism reduces activity-dependent BDNF secretion. Met carriers — about 30% of Europeans and 50% of East Asians — have lower baseline neuroplasticity. Semax's BDNF-boosting effect may be proportionally more valuable for these individuals, making genetic testing particularly relevant.
How does Semax differ from Selank?
Semax is derived from ACTH and primarily works through BDNF upregulation and melanocortin activation — it's more activating and pro-cognitive. Selank is derived from tuftsin and primarily modulates GABA and serotonin — it's more calming and anxiolytic. They are commonly stacked together for balanced cognitive enhancement with mood support.
Learn More About Semax
Personalize your protocol
Does Semax match your DNA?
Upload your existing genetic data or order a kit. Your report scores Semax against your unique genetic profile — CYP metabolism, receptor variants, pathway markers — in minutes.