In biohacking and cognitive enhancement, the quest for chemicals that might increase mental function and reduce the release of stress hormones continues to expand. In this field, the peptides Semax and Selank have received a lot of interest.
Semax and Selank are peptides, short chains of amino acids, synthesized in a laboratory. Studies suggest that these bioactive chemicals, discovered in Russia, may have the potential to improve memory and focus while also reducing stress hormone release.
Research suggests that Semax may have established a niche following among licensed professionals interested in potentially enhancing cognitive skills despite its original development for various neurological problems. However, investigations purport that Selank may offer a fascinating option for scientists seeking to study the potential relief from stress in animal research models.
In this essay, we'll compare and contrast Semax and Selank from a scientific and practical perspective so you can decide which one is best for your research.
What is Semax Peptide?
Semax is a synthetic peptide originally developed to mimic the effects of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This bioactive molecule, created in Russia, is a chain of seven amino acids hypothesized to be essential for peak cognitive performance.
Studies suggest that increased levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are crucial to Semax's mechanism of action. Increased levels of BDNF contribute to better synaptic plasticity, memory formation, and overall cognitive performance. Thus, researchers speculate that Semax may be used in various cognitive research applications, such as studies involving enhancing memory, focus, and problem-solving skills.
Semax has shown potential in the context of neurological illnesses, including stroke impacts, Alzheimer's disease, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), beyond its use in cognitive improvement.
What is Selank Peptide?
The synthetic peptide Selank has received much attention for its possible role in alleviating stress hormone release. Selank, a sequence of seven amino acids created as a nootropic and anxiolytic in Russia, originates in the country. Research suggests that its principal purpose is to manage an organism’s reaction to stress by regulating the secretion of stress hormones, including cortisol.
It is proposed that Selank may exert its potential via modulating neurotransmitter systems, namely serotonin, which is crucial for preserving a stable emotional state. Investigations purport that by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, Selank may potentiall reduce the negative long-term impact of exposure to stress hormones.
Semax Peptide: How Does it Work?
The use of Semax peptide has suggested great promise as a means of improving cognition and protecting nerve cells. Research suggests that not only does it appear to behave like BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), but this is just one of its many possible routes of action.
By modulating the expression of genes implicated in immune cell number and motility, Semax has been hypothesized to exert substantial control over the immunological response. As a result, immune system proteins, chemokines, and immunoglobulins may increase production.
In addition, Semax has been speculated to affect the expression of genes important for the formation and function of the vascular system in rat brain localized ischemia. This combined influence on the immune and cardiovascular systems seems to be the keystone of Semax's neuroprotective potential. In addition to fostering new nerve cell development and flexibility, it may help the brain recover more quickly from ischemic injuries.
Selank Peptide: How Does it Work?
Researchers interested in studies on cortisol release and other stress hormone explorations may consider Selank a potential research compound to examine further. Licensed professionals interested in studying this compound's potential may do so by purchasing from Core Peptides.
Serotonin, a neurotransmitter with a critical function in mood regulation, is proposed as the primary target of Selank's action. It has been speculated that symptoms of anxiety and depression may possibly be mitigated by Selank's potential to raise serotonin levels, which in turn supports hormonal stability.
In addition, new studies have suggested that Selank may have antiviral impacts due to its proposed action method. The results suggest it may directly and indirectly affect the balance of Th1/Th2/Treg cytokines via the central nervous system. This modification is believed to bolster its potential to boost the immune response against viral infections.
Conclusion
Studies suggest that memory and concentration may potentially both be improved with the help of Semax Peptide, although perceptions of tension and mood swings may be alleviated with Selank.
It has been hypothesized that both peptides may show promise, but researchers must proceed cautiously, following all applicable regulations. Please note that none of the substances mentioned in this article have been approved for human consumption, and this paper is for educational purposes only.
References
[i] National Center for Biotechnology Information (2023). PubChem Compound Summary for CID 9811102, Semax. Retrieved November 13, 2023 from https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Semax .
[ii] National Center for Biotechnology Information (2023). PubChem Compound Summary for , Selank. Retrieved November 13, 2023 from https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Selank.
[iii] Medvedeva EV, Dmitrieva VG, Povarova OV, Limborska SA, Skvortsova VI, Myasoedov NF, Dergunova LV. The peptide semax affects the expression of genes related to the immune and vascular systems in rat brain focal ischemia: genome-wide transcriptional analysis. BMC Genomics. 2014 Mar 24;15:228. doi: 10.1186/1471-2164-15-228. PMID: 24661604; PMCID: PMC3987924.
[iv] Ershov FI, Uchakin PN, Uchakina ON, Mezentseva MV, Alekseeva LA, Miasoedov NF. [Antiviral activity of immunomodulator Selank in experimental influenza infection]. Vopr Virusol. 2009 Sep-Oct;54(5):19-24. Russian. PMID: 19882898.
[v] Medvedeva EV, Dmitrieva VG, Povarova OV, Limborska SA, Skvortsova VI, Myasoedov NF, Dergunova LV. The peptide semax affects the expression of genes related to the immune and vascular systems in rat brain focal ischemia: genome-wide transcriptional analysis. BMC Genomics. 2014 Mar 24;15:228. doi: 10.1186/1471-2164-15-228. PMID: 24661604; PMCID: PMC3987924.