Semax vs Selank: Research Comparison
Comparing two Russian-developed neuropeptides with distinct parent sequences. Understanding ACTH-derived vs Tuftsin-derived mechanisms for neuroscience research.
Quick Comparison
| Category | Semax | Selank |
|---|---|---|
| Compound Type | ACTH(4-7) analogue peptide | Tuftsin analogue peptide |
| Amino Acid Length | 7 amino acids | 7 amino acids |
| Origin/Design | ACTH fragment derivative | Tuftsin derivative |
| Primary Research Focus | Cognitive/nootropic studies | Anxiolytic/immunomodulatory studies |
| Key Pathway | BDNF, neurotrophic signaling | GABA, enkephalinase inhibition |
| Development Origin | Russian Institute research | Russian Institute research |
| Purity Standard | ≥98% HPLC verified | ≥98% HPLC verified |
| Stability | Good (PGP modification) | Good (PGP modification) |
What Is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide with the sequence Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro. It was developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Russia as a derivative of ACTH(4-7), the biologically active fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone. The C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro addition (PGP tripeptide) enhances stability and bioavailability.
Semax research applications focus on:
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression
- Neurotrophic signaling pathway studies
- Cognitive function and memory research models
- Neuroprotective mechanism investigations
Semax is particularly interesting for researchers studying neurotrophic factors and their role in neural plasticity, as it has been reported to influence BDNF and other growth factor expression in laboratory models.
What Is Selank?
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide with the sequence Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro. It was developed at the same Russian institute as Semax but derives from tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg), a natural tetrapeptide immunomodulator. Like Semax, it incorporates the stabilizing Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminal modification.
Selank research applications include:
- GABAergic system modulation studies
- Enkephalinase inhibition research
- Anxiolytic mechanism investigations
- Immunomodulatory pathway studies
Selank's dual heritage from tuftsin (immunomodulatory) combined with central nervous system activity makes it an interesting research tool for studying neuroimmune interactions and stress-related signaling pathways.
Mechanism of Action Comparison
Semax
- •BDNF/NGF expression modulation
- •Melanocortin receptor interactions
- •TrkB receptor pathway involvement
- •Dopaminergic/serotonergic modulation
Selank
- •GABA-A receptor complex modulation
- •Enkephalinase inhibition
- •IL-6 and cytokine modulation
- •Serotonin metabolism effects
Research Applications Comparison
While both peptides are studied in neuroscience contexts, their different parent sequences lead to distinct research applications. Selection depends on the specific pathways under investigation.
Semax Research Applications
- • Neurotrophic factor expression studies
- • Cognitive function research models
- • Neuroplasticity investigations
- • ACTH fragment mechanism studies
- • Neuroprotection pathway research
Selank Research Applications
- • Anxiolytic mechanism studies
- • GABAergic modulation research
- • Neuroimmune interaction studies
- • Tuftsin pathway investigations
- • Stress response research
Stability & Handling Comparison
Shared Stability Features
Both peptides share the PGP stabilization modification:
- • Enhanced proteolytic resistance
- • Improved bioavailability profile
- • Similar storage requirements
- • Comparable reconstitution stability
Storage Requirements
Standard peptide storage protocols apply:
- • Lyophilized: -20°C storage
- • Reconstituted: 2-8°C
- • Protect from light and moisture
- • Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Development Background
Both Semax and Selank were developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Moscow. They represent a class of regulatory peptides designed with the Pro-Gly-Pro stabilization strategy. This common development background provides some advantages for comparative research:
- • Similar pharmacokinetic stability profiles
- • Comparable synthesis and quality control methods
- • Established research literature from Russian institutions
- • Well-characterized structure-activity relationships
Summary: Researcher Selection Framework
Choose Semax When:
- ✓ Studying neurotrophic factors (BDNF/NGF)
- ✓ Investigating cognitive pathways
- ✓ Researching ACTH-derived mechanisms
- ✓ Studying neuroplasticity
Choose Selank When:
- ✓ Studying GABAergic modulation
- ✓ Investigating anxiolytic mechanisms
- ✓ Researching neuroimmune interactions
- ✓ Studying tuftsin-derived pathways
Both peptides include ≥98% purity verification. Browse our complete peptide catalog or explore research compounds available in Canada with COA documentation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the structural origins of Semax and Selank?
Semax is derived from ACTH(4-7), the 4-7 fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone, with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro addition. Selank is derived from tuftsin (a natural immunomodulatory tetrapeptide) with the same Pro-Gly-Pro modification for stability.
How do their primary research focuses differ?
Semax research typically focuses on cognitive function, neurotrophic factor expression (particularly BDNF), and neuroprotective mechanisms. Selank research emphasizes anxiolytic mechanisms, GABAergic modulation, and immunomodulatory pathways.
Why do both peptides have similar stability modifications?
Both peptides incorporate a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro (PGP) sequence developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics. This modification enhances proteolytic stability and extends the peptides' activity in research models.
What documentation should researchers expect for these peptides?
Both should include COAs with HPLC purity (≥98%), mass spectrometry identity confirmation, and peptide content analysis. Sequence verification is important given their specific modified structures.
Are Semax and Selank available for research in Canada?
Both peptides are available as research compounds from qualified suppliers. They are labeled for research use only with appropriate documentation for laboratory applications in Canada.
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