Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the ACTH/MSH neuropeptide family. Below is a curated selection of peer-reviewed studies investigating its properties.
2025
The Potential of Semax and Its Derivative for Alzheimer’s Disease
PMC / Frontiers in Pharmacology
This study demonstrated that intranasal administration of Semax significantly improved cognitive function in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. Both Semax and its heptapeptide derivative reduced amyloid load in the brain, with the authors proposing Semax as a promising candidate for early-stage Alzheimer’s intervention.
View Paper β2025
Semax Peptide Targets the ΞΌ-Opioid Receptor Gene Oprm1 for Functional Recovery After Spinal Cord Injury
British Journal of Pharmacology (Wiley)
This 2025 study identified a novel mechanism for Semax in spinal cord injury recovery. Semax was found to target the ΞΌ-opioid receptor gene Oprm1, promoting deubiquitination and functional recovery. This is notable as independent, non-Russian research published in a high-impact Western journal.
View Paper β2022
Semax Inhibits Amyloid-Ξ² Fibrillogenesis and Copper-Induced Neurotoxicity in Alzheimer’s Models
International Journal of Molecular Sciences (PMC / Open Access)
This study investigated Semax’s ability to interfere with the formation of amyloid-Ξ²:copper complexes β a key pathological event in Alzheimer’s disease. Semax was shown to inhibit amyloid fibre formation by disrupting AΞ²:CuΒ²βΊ fibrillogenesis, suggesting a neuroprotective mechanism relevant to multiple neurodegenerative conditions.
View Paper β2021
Brain Protein Expression Profile Confirms the Protective Effect of Semax in Ischaemic Stroke
Frontiers in Genetics (PMC / Open Access)
Using a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion model, this proteomics study confirmed that Semax suppresses inflammatory processes while activating CREB-mediated neuronal recovery pathways. The authors constructed a regulatory network showing how Semax simultaneously reduces cell death signalling and promotes repair.
View Paper β2020
Novel Insights into the Protective Properties of Semax at the Transcriptome Level Following Cerebral IschaemiaβReperfusion
PMC / International Journal of Molecular Sciences
This transcriptome-level study examined Semax’s neuroprotective action following ischaemia-reperfusion injury in rats. Semax was found to normalise mRNA expression patterns disrupted during ischaemic conditions, particularly those associated with anti-inflammatory processes and activation of neurotransmitter systems, providing mechanistic detail for its clinical use in stroke.
View Paper β2014
Semax Affects Expression of Genes Related to the Vascular System in Rat Brain Ischaemia
PMC / Journal of Neurochemistry
This well-cited study showed that Semax modulates expression of vascular development genes following focal brain ischaemia, including upregulation of VEGF and angiogenesis-related pathways. It also confirmed Semax’s BDNF-stimulating activity, with neurotrophin mRNA levels elevated for 24β72 hours post-administration.
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