Semax BDNF Study - ScienceDirect
/ScienceDirect/2026
Why It Matters
This paper caught my attention because BDNF is like fertilizer for your brain—it supports neuroplasticity and neuron survival. Semax is a peptide that some biohackers use for cognitive enhancement, and this study provides a plausible mechanism. But here's the reality check: this is rat data from a single dose study. We have zero human data on BDNF changes from this paper, and animal brain chemistry doesn't always translate to humans.
Key Findings
- Single intranasal dose of Semax (50 μg/kg) increased hippocampal BDNF mRNA levels by 1.4-1.8 fold in rats within 3 hours
- TrkB receptor expression (BDNF's binding partner) also increased by similar magnitude, suggesting enhanced BDNF signaling capacity
- Effects were specifically measured in the hippocampus, the brain region most associated with memory formation and learning
- The peptide showed blood-brain barrier penetration via intranasal administration, avoiding the digestive system
- Semax is a synthetic analog of ACTH fragment (4-10), meaning it mimics part of a naturally occurring stress hormone but without the full hormonal effects