Semax is a synthetic polypeptide that mimics the biologically active portion of the human hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone fragment 4-10. (ACTH 4-10). We will discuss more of this and the nootropic effects of Semax in this article, so keep reading.
The adrenocorticotropic hormone is a peptide hormone generated by the anterior pituitary gland. Fragment 4-10 is the part of the hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands. Despite lacking the hallmark ACTH properties, this fragment does have a distinct impact on the brain, including improving memory and attention. Semax, a chemically related compound, is thought to have some of the same effects on the body. Visit this website for more resources.
History
The Institute of Molecular Genetics at a Russian university in Moscow created Semax on Russia’s official “Vital and Essential Drugs List.”
Since the FDA has not authorized Semax peptides in the United States, only a tiny amount of data is available from clinical trials. More research is needed to determine the medication’s safety and effectiveness before researchers may use it clinically.
Nootropic medications have been developed for 30 years to enhance cognitive (memory) performance. Keeping an eye on one’s mental state is what’s meant by the word nootropic. You may have heard of these pharmaceuticals by another name: “smart substances.”
Naturally produced peptides in the body’s system manage the major regulatory systems, including the nervous system, and serve many biological purposes. The major downside of these naturally occurring peptides is that they are very unstable, i.e., they are readily degraded by the biological enzymes present in gastrointestinal, cerebrospinal, and other bodily fluids. Therefore, active research and study aimed at synthesizing analogs of such peptides, which exhibit the same biological activity but are very stable.
Semax is one such peptide; it is a synthetic version of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), a naturally occurring human hormone. It has the same nootropic effects as ACTH but is far more stable in the body.
There is insufficient information on Semax to establish a specific mechanism of action. Nonetheless, there are several hypotheses grounded on scientific studies about the mechanisms through which Semax peptide manifests its effects in the body:
Some Enzymes Are Suppressed
Semax was shown to block certain enzymes in the body that control enkephalin breakdown in research. The naturally occurring neurotransmitters called enkephalins, primarily produced in the brain, control a wide range of physiological processes.
Semax, not only enkephalins similarly inhibit several additional peptide-degrading enzymes released in human serum. Because of this, Semax can exert its biological effects by keeping a healthy balance of the necessary peptides in the body.
Heightened Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
In the same way, as psychostimulants boost dopamine and BDNF levels in the brain, a recent study demonstrated that Semax had a comparable effect. As a result, concentration levels rose, and it facilitated cognitive maturation.
The imbalance between these two hormones is thought to have a role in developing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Semax’s therapeutic promise in treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder stems from its ability to increase these hormones.
Regulate the Activity of Genes
According to this research, Semax may influence the expression of genes that play a role in immunological regulation.
Because of its capacity to modulate gene expression, immune cells’ number and mobility increase. Genes involved in encoding chemokines and immunoglobulins were among the most affected by Semax in terms of expression among immune cells. Using this mechanism, Semax maintains and improves cardiovascular health.
Where are the advantages?
Semax’s reported benefits have not been adequately confirmed by clinical trials involving human subjects. Studies in animals and in vitro indicate the following applications, however:
- Benefits to the nervous system; it might help shield nerves from harm.
- Possibility of improved cognitive abilities (e.g., better memory) due to nootropic effects.
- Help prevent cardiovascular disease; may help treat stroke.
- Possible use in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) owing to its stimulating effect on cognitive growth and enhancing focus.
- Reduce anxiety and discomfort.
- Neuroprotective Effects of Semax
One hundred subjects with ischemic stroke participated in this randomized controlled experiment. Thirty models received Semax in addition to the standard treatment, while the other subjects were assigned to the control group and received just standard treatment.
When Semax was used with standard treatment, the pace at which impaired neurological functions recovered was significantly increased. Experts examined the data with the use of EEG mapping. This research showed that Semax might help treat neurological illnesses and nerve damage, most likely in combination with existing therapies.