Last reviewed: October 2026 · Cleared Peptides research team
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It combines the ACTH(4–7) fragment Met-Glu-His-Phe with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro tripeptide that protects it from enzymatic degradation.
Semax Structure and Identifiers
| Name | Semax |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | ACTH(4–7)-Pro-Gly-Pro |
| CAS number | 80714-61-0 |
| PubChem CID | 9811102 |
| Molecular formula | C37H51N9O10S |
| Molecular weight | ≈813.9 g/mol |
| Sequence | Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
Design
The ACTH(4–7) fragment has no corticotropic (adrenal-stimulating) activity. Adding Pro-Gly-Pro, a sequence resistant to many peptidases, extends the peptide’s stability — the same strategy used in Selank.
Published Research Areas
- BDNF and neurotrophin gene-expression studies
- Melanocortin-receptor interaction studies
- Peptide-stability research
This summary describes laboratory research only and makes no claim about effects in humans or animals.
Purity Testing and Storage
Every lot of Semax supplied by Cleared Peptides is tested by an independent laboratory for identity and purity (or composition, for multi-component preparations), and the lot Certificate of Analysis is published on our COA page. Store lyophilized Semax at −20 °C, sealed, dry and protected from light. Allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening and minimize freeze–thaw cycles. Handle according to your institution’s chemical-hygiene procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Semax related to Selank?
Both are Russian-developed heptapeptides stabilized with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro; Semax derives from ACTH(4–7), Selank from tuftsin.
Is Semax for human use?
No. Cleared Peptides supplies Semax for laboratory research use only; it is not for human or veterinary use.
Selected References
Peer-reviewed literature on the compounds discussed in this guide, listed as scientific background for laboratory researchers. Citation does not imply endorsement by the authors or any use other than in-vitro research.
- Tarasov VV, et al. Pharmacological Aspects of Neuro-Immune Interactions. Curr Pharm Des. 2018;24(1):15-21. PubMed 28875850 · DOI
- Magrì A, et al. Influence of the N-terminus acetylation of Semax, a synthetic analog of ACTH(4-10), on copper(II) and zinc(II) coordination and biological properties. J Inorg Biochem. 2016;164:59-69. PubMed 27586814 · DOI
Laboratory note: solubility depends on salt form and solvent. This guide does not state a single solubility figure. Handling of lyophilized material is described in the peptide storage guide.
Research Use Only Notice
This guide is provided for educational and laboratory reference purposes. It summarizes published, primarily in-vitro and structural research literature and does not describe, recommend or imply any use in humans or animals. Products sold by Cleared Peptides are for laboratory research use only; they are not drugs, foods, cosmetics or dietary supplements, are not FDA-approved, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. No dosing, administration or therapeutic information is provided.
