Research effects
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro), an analogue of the ACTH(4-10) fragment, clinically used as a neuroprotective drug in some countries. Its core mechanism is multitargeted: it modulates acetylcholine and GABA receptor functions in the brain, and suppresses post-ischemic neuroinflammation by upregulating anti-inflammatory genes (e.g., IL-10) while downregulating pro-inflammatory factors (e.g., IL-8). Additionally, Semax chelates copper ions to reduce metal-induced neurotoxicity and modulates hippocampal gene transcription to counteract stress-induced cognitive impairment. The C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro motif confers resistance to enzymatic degradation, resulting in a therapeutic duration far exceeding its short plasma half-life.
