Semax is one of the most well-known peptides in the field of nootropic and neuroprotection research. However, few people know that its origins date back to Moscow laboratories more than three decades ago. In this article, we will look at where and how Semax originated — from a purely historical and scientific perspective.
Born in a Moscow laboratory
Semax was developed in the 1980s at the Institute of Molecular Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences in Moscow. It was developed by a team of scientists led by academician Nikolai Myasoedov and physiologist Isaak Ashmarin. Semax was first described in the scientific literature in 1991.
From hormone fragment to stable peptide
The researchers started from a fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), specifically the ACTH(4–10) region. This short peptide showed interesting neurotropic properties, but it degraded very quickly in the body. The solution was to add a stabilizing amino acid trio — Pro-Gly-Pro — to the end of the molecule. The result was a heptapeptide with the sequence Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro (MEHFPGP), which was significantly more stable and resistant to degradation.
Its name is also related to the number of amino acids: "Semax" is derived from the Russian phrase for "seven amino acids" (Russian: sev. PULL = seven), as the molecule consists of seven amino acids.
Development milestones
First described in 1991, Semax was registered as a drug in Russia in 1994. It has been included in the Russian List of Vital and Essential Medicines since December 7, 2011. In Russia, it has been studied in relation to stroke, transient ischemia, and memory and cognition disorders. However, Semax has not been approved or registered outside of Russia — for example, it does not have FDA approval in the USA.
What science is researching today
The exact mechanism of action of Semax is still not fully understood. Research suggests that it may act on melanocortin receptors and affect enzymes that break down endogenous peptides. In animal studies, Semax increased levels of the neurotrophic factor BDNF and its receptor TrkB in the hippocampus. These findings remain the subject of further laboratory and preclinical research.
Summary
The Semax story is an example of how research into hormone fragments can lead to a stable molecule with interesting scientific potential. This is why Semax remains the subject of active research and one of the most studied peptides of its kind.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and historical-scientific purposes only. All peptides and products mentioned on this site are for research and laboratory purposes only and are not intended for use in humans or animals, nor for the diagnosis, treatment or prevention of any disease.